Gadgets to help manage hand arthritis

27 Jun Gadgets to help manage hand arthritis

Posted at 11:29h in Blog by Melbourne Hand Rehab

Osteoarthritis commonly affects the base of the thumb, finger joints, and wrist. When the thumb is impacted, pinching becomes difficult, arthritic finger joints make gripping challenging and wrist movements can be painful.

Managing these symptoms through hand therapy (e.g. splinting, massage, exercise) is essential. Another crucial aspect of arthritis management is protecting the joints from further aggravation. In this blog, I’ll introduce you to some tips and tricks to make daily tasks more arthritis-friendly.

Everything with a thicker grip

A bigger grip is easier on joints.

Tools with thicker grips minimise awkward hand positions and excessive gripping force, which can aggravate arthritis symptoms. You can try:

Thick-handled utensils
Pens with larger grips
Household tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and gardening tools with large grips
Key turners
Can & jar openers

Arthritis can make even the most simple tasks, painfully difficult. Assistive devices can make living with arthritis easier.

DIY Option:

Add-on grips can be attached to standard items, converting them into arthritis-friendly tools. These can be fitted onto existing tools and utensils, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Modify the way things are done

There is no right or wrong way to do things, only suitable or unsuitable ways.

If cutting vegetables with a knife is straining, a vegetable slicer can help by offloading finger joints and engaging the entire arm in the action. A creative alternative vegetable peeler design is a palm peeler, which does not require the use of the thumb to hold the peeler. If this is a concern for you, I recommend giving it a try!

Lever rather than twisting

Lever handles are commonly used in universal design.

Unlike doorknobs, which require sideway and twisting movements (radial and ulnar deviation) of the wrist, lever handles operate with a simple downward or upward push. This motion is more linear and involves less rotational force, making it easier and less painful to use.

Lever handles can be installed on doors and taps to increase accessibility and ease of use. Some cost-effective DIY retrofitting options include:

Tap turner
Door knob lever adapter
Ring-pull can opener

Read our blog: Gadgets to help manage hand arthritis

Hand arthritis can limit the range of motion and significantly impact daily life. Understanding which joints and movements are affected and exploring management strategies can help maintain function and reduce discomfort.

By integrating arthritis-friendly gadgets and modifying how tasks are performed, you can improve your daily living experience and maintain greater independence.