Hand and wrist movements

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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.

Credits

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Author	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
Last Updated	October 29, 2008

Last updated:	October 29, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, David Pichora, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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