3 Hand Exercises to Manage Arthritis

Khairunissa Hemani • Jun 01, 2021

 Grabbing a cup, typing on a keyboard, or carrying a bag—all these actions require the use of our hands, as do most of our daily tasks. Unfortunately, as the years progress, you may start to notice discomfort in your hands due to overuse.



If you are experiencing pain or stiffness in your hands, you may be suffering from arthritis. However, before you panic and start searching “what is arthritis?” rest assured that this condition is a very common, albeit painful, one. 


Arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory condition that causes swelling in one or more of your joints, especially in joints that are constantly being used. This is why arthritis of the hand is both very common and difficult to manage as there are few activities you can do throughout the day that don’t require the use of your hands. 


However, you can pursue some arthritis treatments to get your range of motion back. Read on to learn more about this chronic condition, and explore three types of hand exercises that may help relieve discomfort and slow the progression of arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis


As mentioned earlier, arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects overactive joints. Stiffness, sharp pain, and reduced range of motion are all key signs and symptoms of the disease. 


While arthritis typically attacks joints, muscular issues can also arise and you may notice muscle weakness or pain in the surrounding areas of the affected joint.


Typically, arthritis affects people who are older, have an underlying condition, or are very physically active and overuse certain parts of their body. Over time, it can lead to severe pain and stiffness, loss of motion, and even surgery to replace the damaged joint.


Hand Exercises for Arthritis


If you have been diagnosed with arthritis of the hand, take a look at the following hand exercises for arthritis that will reduce any swelling and discomfort.


1. Make a Fist


Although it sounds easy, making a fist can be difficult when you have arthritis. The key is to do this regularly, at least a few times each day, to build up your muscles and avoid stiff joints. 


Keep your thumb extended outward and slowly clench the rest of your fingers into a fist. Make sure to hold this position for a few seconds, and then repeat at least 10 times throughout the day. Again, the goal of this exercise is to improve the range of motion in your hand and keep it from becoming stiff.


2. Finger lifts


Another exercise you can do throughout the day is called finger lifts. To do this, place your hand palm down on a flat surface. Gently lift each finger, one at a time, as far away from your hand and hold it in place for a few seconds. Keep doing this a few times each day especially if you are typing on a computer. 


This simple exercise will improve blood circulation to your fingers and stretch the joints and muscles in your hand.


3. Thumb and finger bends


Lastly, thumb and finger bends are an excellent way of relieving any discomfort from arthritis. Keep your hand extended and your palm facing up to do this exercise. Slowly raise your thumb and index finger to meet and drop back down again. Do this again, but this time with your thumb and middle finger.

Continue bringing the tip of the thumb together with the tip of each finger, and try to do multiple sets of these each day. 

While this exercise may be slightly uncomfortable to do in the beginning depending on the severity of your arthritis, you will notice an increased range of motion as you continue with this and the above exercises.


Consult a Physiotherapist as Needed!


In addition to performing these basic exercises throughout the day, you may also want some professional assistance for more extensive hand exercises. If so, consulting with a certified physiotherapist is another proactive way of addressing your arthritis.


Here at Delta Physiotherapy & Rehab, located in Mississauga, ON, we are staffed with trained physiotherapists and rehab professionals who are ready to meet with you today! Explore the range of services we offer, and let us help you along your journey to a pain-free life. 


Call us at (905)270-3086 or visit our website to fill out the contact form and make an appointment!

05 Mar, 2024
Explore the wide range of physiotherapy services offered by Delta, and how they can improve your health and well-being.
05 Mar, 2024
Learn when osteopathy can be considered and how it can rescue you from various health issues.
06 Feb, 2024
Discover the importance of cardiac rehabilitation and how it can be a lifeline for heart patients.
06 Feb, 2024
Understand the process of TMJ Dysfunction Treatment and how it effectively alleviates jaw pain.
a man is helping a woman with her leg on a blue exercise ball .
08 Jan, 2024
Discover the benefits of Vestibular Rehab and how it can help regain your balance and coordination.
a woman with crutches is being helped by a doctor in a gym .
08 Jan, 2024
Learn how physiotherapy can assist in your recovery journey after a motor vehicle accident.
04 Dec, 2023
Navigate the world of WSIB with our guide on how physiotherapy can help you through the process.
a person is getting a laser treatment on their knee .
04 Dec, 2023
Discover the benefits of Laser therapy and how it offers a modern approach to pain management and promotes faster healing.
02 Nov, 2023
Learn the benefits of medical compression stockings beyond comfort, and how they can support your health.
Shockwave Therapy
02 Nov, 2023
Find out how shockwave therapy can provide an effective solution for managing chronic pain.
More Posts
Share by: