With the amount of typing and texting we do these days, it's no wonder many of us experience hand and wrist pain. If you experience weakness or numbness as well, it could mean you have a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome—an inflammatory disorder that occurs in the nerves of the hand that's caused by repetitive stress (such as typing, for example), injury, or a medical condition (the disorder is more common among those with diabetes, osteoarthritis, hypothyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis).
Whether your hand and wrist pain is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome or is simply a result of too much time spent on a computer or doing other desk work, Jamie Costello, fitness director at the Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa, says these 5 stretches can help.
Forearm Stretch
Wrist Extension
From a seated or standing position, extend one arm in front of your body at shoulder level with your fingers pointing upward, then grasp your fingertips with the opposite hand and gently pull them toward your body until you feel a stretch under your wrist. Hold 20 to 30 seconds, then switch sides.
Finger Flexion and Extension
Wrist Flexion and Extension with Weight
Grip Strengthening
Find a soft ball (such as a tennis or "stress relief" ball) or some hand putty and grasp it so that the pads of your fingers are firmly holding the ball or putty. Then, simply squeeze and release, repeating 5 to 10 times.
Prevention Premium: 5 Slimming Habits Of People Who've Lost More Than 30 Pounds And Kept It Off
Watch Next
Denise Austin Shares 3 Moves You Can Do ‘Anytime’
Denise Austin Demonstrates ‘Lower Belly’ Move
Denise Austin Shares Tips for ‘Strong’ Legs
Weight Training for Weight Loss, Explained
