Hand and wrist movements
Try to avoid hand and wrist movements that can cause pain and other symptoms.
- Keep your wrists straight or only slightly bent. Avoid activities that bend or twist the wrists for long periods of time.
- Take frequent breaks from typing or other repetitive activities to stretch your hands and wrists.
- Avoid doing repetitive movements (hammering, typing, knitting, quilting, sweeping, raking, playing racquet sports, rowing) for long periods of time without rest breaks.
- Avoid holding objects in one position for long periods of time (holding a book or playing cards).
- Watch your grip. Gripping with only the thumb and index finger can stress the wrist. Whenever possible, use your whole hand to grasp an object.
- Reduce the speed and force of repetitive hand movements. Type with a soft touch.
- When working with tools that vibrate (drills, sanders), use specially designed gloves that support the wrist and have vibration-absorbing padding. Take frequent breaks, and switch hands often.
- Do exercises that strengthen hand and arm muscles. However, do not exercise if it causes pain.
| Author: | Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: November 3, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery | |
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