No Drugs Required: Hand Exercises That Reduce Arthritis Pain Fast : The Hearty Soul

Arthritis is a condition that wears away the cartilage of a joint, leading to inflammation and irritation of the synovial lining. This can cause pain and stiffness in the hands, especially during repetitive tasks that require hand movement.

Treating hand arthritis can involve oral pain relievers, steroid injections, splinting, or even surgery if necessary. However, there are also effective home treatments available.

One of the most beneficial ways to reduce arthritis pain and improve hand function is through hand exercises. These exercises can strengthen the muscles supporting the hand joints, improve range of motion, and increase the production of synovial fluid.

Hand Exercises for Arthritis Relief

Here are some hand exercises you can do to relieve arthritis pain:

Exercise #1: Make a Fist

1. Hold your hand out with fingers straight.
2. Bend your hand into a fist gently, then open it back up.
3. Repeat 10 times for each hand.

Exercise #2: Finger Bends

1. Bend each finger towards your palm one at a time.
2. Hold for a few seconds, then straighten.
3. Repeat for each finger on both hands.

Exercise #3: Thumb Bend

1. Bend your thumb inward towards your palm.
2. Stretch towards your pinky finger.
3. Repeat 10 times for each hand.

Exercise #4: Make an ‘O’

1. Form an ‘O’ shape with your fingers.
2. Hold for a few seconds, then straighten.
3. Repeat multiple times a day for each hand.

Exercise #5: Table Bend

1. Place the side of your hand on a table, fingers pointed up.
2. Bend fingers inward to form an ‘L’ shape.
3. Repeat 10 times on each hand.

Exercise #6: Finger Lift

1. Lift each finger off the table one at a time.
2. Hold for a few seconds, then lower.
3. Repeat for each finger on both hands.

Exercise #7: Wrist Stretch

1. Stretch your wrist by pressing down with your opposite hand.
2. Hold for a few seconds, then release.
3. Repeat 10 times for each hand.

Outlook for Arthritis in Hands

Make these exercises a part of your daily routine to reduce pain and improve hand function. If you have difficulty with these exercises, consult your doctor for more specific recommendations or treatments.

Shared with permission from our friends at Healthline.