Tension and stress can affect all parts of the body — even your wrists and hands. Excessive pinching and gripping of your mouse can cause fatigue in the fine muscles of your hand, wrist, and forearm. There are a number of ways you can reduce stress at home and at work. Here are a few suggestions:
Exercise! Exercising is a great way to reduce tension in your muscles especially if you have a job that requires you to sit for a majority of the day. As we sit our body creates metabolic waste which can cause fatigue and tension. Exercise can be as simple as walking up and down stairs on a break. Try to get up from your chair at least once every hour.
Breathe! Take a class like yoga or martial arts to relieve stress and clear the mind. The Fitness Center at Valley Medical Center has many different classes to promote health and a stress free life. While at your desk take slow deep breaths, close your eyes, and clear your mind of any thoughts. This can refresh your mind and allow you to get more work done while pain free.
Release! Some people enjoy taking a boxing class or hitting the heavy bag to release stress.
Massage Therapy! Get a massage and ask the therapist to focus on any tense areas of your body. If you do not want to spend the money have a close family member or friend give you a shoulder or back rub.
