I agree with charsuewilson the height of your machine must work for you. You might even do better standing? oo with a lower or higher table with the machine on it while you sit. This is something you need to do for your needs.
I bought a Fabulous Fabirc guide to use with FMQ. It literally needs no pressure to help with the fabric when FMQ'ing. I had a most difficult time using the halo from SS.
Right now I have shoulder, elbow, and hand issues. I have my cutting station at the correct height for me. I have a rotary cutter that is the right weight and size for me. Though I can only cut up to 2 layers of fabric at a time, I can still cut. I do use my Alto's Quilt Cut2 an awful lot as it is easier for me to use than using rulers on the rotary mat.
I also have a HQ16 but equipped it with the ProStitcher so the computer does the work. I love it. Right now FMQ on the HQ is not possible. Darn.