Your hands are one of the most useful parts of your body. You depend on them for everything from throwing a ball to playing video games to eating your favorite foods. It’s essential to take good care of your hands so they stay strong and flexible. Here are key tips to keep your hands in top shape.
Stretch and Strengthen Your Hands
Just like other muscles, the muscles and tendons in your hands need regular exercise. Stretch your hands and fingers in different directions to improve flexibility. Activities like clay sculpting or playing with putty help too.
To build strength, squeeze a soft stress ball or squashy toy. You can even strengthen hands using everyday chores like wringing washcloths or crumpling paper. Keeping hands nimble makes tasks easier.
Protect Your Hands from Injury
Many hand injuries happen from playing sports or accidents at home. Wear protective gloves when playing baseball, hockey or skateboarding. Helmets with face masks also guard hands in contact sports.
Use caution with sharp or hot objects in the kitchen and workshop. Keep fingers away from doors, drawers and moving equipment. Preventing hand injuries keeps your hands healthy for life.
Practice Good Hygiene
Germs easily pass from hands to food or other people, causing illness. Wash hands with soap and water frequently throughout the day, especially before eating. Scrub for at least 20 seconds – singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice is a good timer.
Use hand sanitizer when sinks aren’t available. Keep nails trimmed neatly to discourage grime. Developing good hygiene habits now makes proper handwashing automatic.
Moisturize Dry Skin
Frequent handwashing and sanitizing can dry out skin. Apply cream or petroleum jelly after washing and before bed to keep hands hydrated and smooth. Look for unscented formulas if scents bother you. Moisturized hands resist cracks where germs can enter.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention if your hands ache, tingle, feel numb or swollen. Tell an adult at the first sign of anything unusual. Tingling could indicate poor circulation. Swelling or persistent pain may signal injury or early arthritis. Don’t ignore symptoms – get them checked.
Take Breaks When Necessary
Repetitive hand motions from activities like handwriting, typing, texting or playing instruments can cause soreness or numbness over time. Take short breaks to stretch, shake out and massage your hands. Altering techniques helps too. Listen when your hands say it’s time to rest.
Eat Nutritious Foods
A balanced, nutritious diet provides nutrients for healthy hands from the inside out. Foods rich in vitamin B6, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids promote strong hands. Drink plenty of water as well to keep hands hydrated. Proper nutrition heals overused tissues.
Protect Hands from Weather
Exposure to cold, wind and sun can damage skin and joints over time. Wear weather-appropriate gloves when outdoors – lined for warmth and sun-protective when it’s hot. Keep hands covered in extreme weather. The right gloves shield hands all year.
Use Proper Form and Ergonomics
Whether writing, typing or playing sports, using proper form and positioning reduces hand strain. Maintain good posture and keep wrists straight. Position devices at eye level. Check that equipment fits your hands. Good form prevents injury.
Don’t Ignore Persistent Symptoms
See your doctor if hand pain, swelling, numbness or tingling persists more than a few days. It’s important to diagnose any underlying condition early. Issues like carpal tunnel syndrome are more easily treated when caught early. Don’t delay on any unusual hand symptoms.
Let Your Doctor Know About Injuries
See a doctor promptly if you injure your hands seriously through sports or an accident at home or school. X-rays can check for fractures. Proper treatment ensures optimal healing and function. Don’t just “shake off” hand pain – get it checked.
Your hands do so much for you all day, every day. Give them some TLC with stretching, protection and good hygiene. Healthy hands will allow you to grip, write, create and play your best!
