Pinching and gripping with the hands, awkward bending of the wrists, elbows, and shoulders, and forceful overexertions of muscles and tendons contribute to repetitive strain illnesses (RSI). Any modification of an operation that reduces or eliminates these motions will benefit recovery. The following suggestions are meant to increase your awareness of less stressful methods of accomplishing daily activities, both at home and at work.

Use appropriate aids and tools to reduce use of hands or fingers, such as

• electric can openers to eliminate twisting pinch grip
• mechanical aids that use arm muscles rather than hands or fingers (jar openers)
• food processors or electric peelers to reduce grip and flexing
• speaker phones or head sets to eliminate holding
• automatic transmissions and power steering and windows
• padded and textured steering wheel covers to increase thickness and grip
• book and playing card holders to reduce pinch grip
• ergonomically designed tools for kitchen, shop, and gardening
• padded wrist mitts for warmth and reduced contact with surface

Reduce work load by

• taking frequent (every 15 minutes) short breaks and lightly stretching muscles and tendons
• using disposable dinnerware and baking dishes (light weight and no wash)
• microwaving individual portions rather than lifting and washing heavy pots and pans
• buying pre-cut meats, salad mixes, and vegetables
• putting casters on furniture or equipment to be moved
• sliding heavy objects rather than lifting
• using carts or dollies to transport heavy or bulky items
• avoiding high overhead reaches and arching backs
• using Velcro closures for clothes and shoes where possible
• keeping objects close to the body when carrying them
• using automatic garage door openers
• installing levers rather than knobs (faucets, doors)

Balance the work load by

• using keystrokes in place of mouse or trackball
• carrying items with non-dominant hand
• mousing with non-dominant hand
• using palm rather than fingers for carrying objects and removing jar lids
• using larger muscles to lift - not hands (cradle child, books, or groceries)
• pushing heavy doors with whole body or both hands
• using both hands to pick-up or carry heavy objects
• varying jobs to use different motions and alternate frequently
• reducing non-work activities that use the same muscle groups as work

Reduce grip forces by

• padding handles of tools to allow larger surface area
• devising ingenious methods for adapting frequently used objects
• using foam tube on pens and pencils to reduce pinch grip and increase surface contact
• using pillows for lap cushions (reading or needle work)
• considering weight and feel before purchasing frequently used products
• purchasing vehicles with squeeze grip door openers - not push buttons

Increase efficiency by

• storing frequently needed objects within easy reach and near waist height
• installing space savers, like pull-out shelves or Lazy Susan cabinets
• keeping tools and supplies needed (baking, carpentry) within arm’s reach