Slide show: Joint protection for people with hand arthritis
Toothbrushes
People with hand arthritis should avoid pinching items between their thumb and forefinger because this puts extra stress on already painful joints. Try adding a short length of foam tubing over the handles of toothbrushes and eating utensils. Certain types of pipe insulation tubing, which can be found at hardware stores, may be useful.
Large-handled tools
Many kitchen tools, such as vegetable peelers, can now be purchased with larger handles.
Turning tool
This turning tool features a collection of collapsible metal pins. These pins individually depress, so they can mold around objects such as oven knobs and the ends of car or house keys. Using the large handle on the tool helps people avoid the pinching motion required to turn knobs and keys.
Pens and pencils
Larger-barrel pens — as well as rubbery grips that can be installed over narrow pens and pencils — can reduce stress on finger and thumb joints. Some pens are designed to be worn on a finger, while others are shaped like a Y so your forefinger can rest on top of the pen.
Kitchen knife
This type of kitchen knife allows your hand and wrist to stay in a more neutral position, avoiding the pinch grip used with traditional knives.
Cutting board
This type of cutting board may help protect hand joints by reducing the amount of force needed to hold on to food while chopping. The nail pegs and raised ledge help secure food during meal preparation.
Jar openers
When you're faced with a stubborn jar lid or bottle cap, many different types of opening devices can reduce the amount of stress placed on your hand joints. For cans, use an electric can opener to avoid the finger strain of turning a hand-held model.
Automatic scissors
With normal scissors, your hand must work to open the scissors as well as close them. Spring-loaded scissors open automatically, which reduces joint strain.
Buttonhook
To protect your finger joints, avoid tightly pinching with your fingers. For example, use a buttonhook to help you grasp and fasten buttons on your clothes. Choose loose fitting clothes with easy-to-close fasteners, such as zippers or large buttons.
Doorknob lever
Squeezing a doorknob can be hard on finger joints. A lever attachment makes it easier to open the door.
Shoulder straps
Avoid suspending the entire weight of a heavy briefcase or purse in your fingers. Use a shoulder strap that crosses the body instead.
Holding a book
Use your palms to hold an object when you can, such as when reading a book or magazine. This helps you avoid bending the large knuckles of your hand while keeping your finger joints straight. Or try placing reading materials flat on a table or on a pillow in your lap to avoid grasping the items with your hands.
Last Updated Feb 25, 2021
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