How to Prevent Hand Muscle Injury

A hand muscle injury is not only a painful condition but can also result in a disruption of your daily activities. For some people, these injuries can be difficult to avoid due to their work requirements. This may also be the case for many people who enjoy sports activities. Learning the best ways to prevent hand muscle injuries is the best line of defense.

Types of Injuries

• A very common muscle injury to the hand and wrist is known as RSI, or repetitive strain injury. These injuries happen when the hand is used to repeat movements over and over. People who tend to get this condition are often computer users, who spend much of their time using a keyboard and mouse. Musicians can also be prone to muscle injuries of the hand, as they use their hands and wrists to operate instruments. Muscle sprains or strains are also common hand muscle injuries.

Ways to Prevent Injury

• Ultimate-guitar.com teaches site visitors how guitarists can avoid injury. They suggest checking your hand positioning while playing, as poor fretting can cause strain on the hand. Making sure that you hold the instrument correctly is also important. It is also important that you relax your hands and wrists while playing, since stress adds tension to the muscles and makes them more prone to injury.

  People who work out can also be prone to hand muscles strains. Bodybuilding.com teaches visitors that when exercises are performed improperly, they can damage your muscles. When in doubt about how to perform an exercise, it is best to seek the advice of a trained professional to learn the correct steps, posture and ways to hold athletic equipment.

  The medical website familydoctor.org advises people to prop their arm up with pillows when reclining. Avoid using one hand too much by alternating between both hands when possible. Also, be sure to use proper posture and technique when performing tasks requiring use of your hands or wrists.

  Medical-look.com says that warming up and stretching your hands before participating in activities will loosen and relax the muscles. This will not only help you to function better, but help prevent hand muscle injuries. Stretching after completing these tasks is also helpful.

Know When to See a Doctor

• While taking steps to prevent hand muscle injuries is preferable, knowing when to seek medical attention and advice is sometimes the best course of action. Mayoclinic.com says if it is too late to prevent injury, your doctor may prescribe physical therapy to correct the issue. In extreme cases surgery may be required.