Living with arthritis hand pain can be a daily struggle, affecting various aspects of life from simple tasks to more complex activities. However, there are lesser-known strategies and techniques that can significantly alleviate discomfort and make daily life more manageable. These life hacks are designed to ease the strain on arthritic hand joints, allowing individuals to maintain independence and functionality.
In this blog, we’ll explore nine practical tips for living with arthritis hand pain, ranging from simple adjustments in daily routines to specialized tools and techniques. Whether you’re struggling with opening medication bottles or carrying small children, these tips aim to provide practical solutions to common challenges faced by individuals with arthritis.
By incorporating these lesser-known life hacks into your daily routine, you can minimize discomfort and maximize functionality, empowering you to live life to the fullest despite arthritis hand pain. Let’s delve into these practical strategies and discover how they can improve your quality of life.
- Flip Prescription Caps: Opening prescription medication bottles with child-proof caps can be difficult if you have swollen and painful hand joints. A lesser-known trick is to flip the cap over, using the underside as a twist-off cap that requires minimal force. Alternatively, you can place your palm on top of the cap for easier twisting.
- Hold Children Differently: Parents and caregivers with hand arthritis can avoid straining their hands, especially thumbs and wrists, when carrying small children. Instead of traditional methods, try wrapping your forearms around the child and holding them directly in front of you. This distributes weight to your arms and shoulders, relieving strain on hand joints.
- Opt for Easy-to-Wear Clothing: Dressing can be challenging with arthritis hand pain, especially with buttons and zippers. Choose loose clothing without fasteners or opt for magnetic buttons that require minimal effort to fasten and unfasten.
- Use Pump Containers: Switch from squeeze bottles to pump containers for products like shampoo and conditioner. Pressing with your palm is easier than squeezing, reducing stress on hand joints.
- Adjust Pen Grip: Holding a pen or stylus can be uncomfortable with tender joints. Try holding it between your pointer and middle finger instead of thumb and pointer finger for a more comfortable position. Wide-grip pens are also easier to hold.
- Try Specialized Knives: Cutting and chopping can be challenging with standard knives. Look for knives with oversized handles or alternative designs that minimize stress on hand joints, making meal prep easier.
- Inject Medication with Palm: When self-injecting medication for arthritis, use your palm to gently push the syringe’s plunger, avoiding stress on thumb joints.
- Utilize Voice Recording Software: Give your fingers a rest by using voice recording software for typing tasks. Dictate notes and messages instead of typing to reduce strain on hand joints.
- Choose Ergonomic Travel Mugs: When selecting a travel mug, consider its weight, width for comfortable gripping, ease of opening, and cleaning method. Opt for features that minimize strain on arthritic hand joints.
These life hacks can significantly improve daily life for individuals with arthritis hand pain. However, for personalized advice and additional strategies, consulting a health professional such as an occupational therapist, rheumatologist, orthopedist, or physical therapist specializing in hand arthritis is recommended.
Summary:
Living with arthritis hand pain can be challenging, but implementing practical tips and techniques can make a significant difference. Dr. Ankur Kumar, the best Orthopedic doctor in Pune for Arthritis, emphasizes these lesser-known life hacks to ease daily struggles. From flipping prescription caps to utilizing voice recording software, these strategies aim to minimize strain on arthritic hand joints, promoting a more comfortable and manageable lifestyle.
