hand fatigue

[Ann Louise Fetters]

I have left hand difficulty; holding the item too tightly with my left hand creates pain. I try to remember to be looser, however, during the process, attention is on the stitch, or bead. My right hand, which is constantly in motion does not feel bad, therefore, I think it is the 'holding hand'. I am training myself to sew left- handed. It works sometimes, but not every sewing direction lends itself to this. I think lefties have an opposite direction??!!
Please, many must have similar difficulties! Advise!

[Carol-Anne]

Hi Ann. Are you using a hoop/frame, if so why not get a stand? And if not I suggest you do and use a stand.

Apart from solving the problem of fatigue in your left hand, I really like having both hands free for stitching.

CA

[Ann Louise Fetters]

No, I am not embroidering right now, or quilting......am beading 3/4" ribbon for bracelet cuffs. When not doing this, I heavily embelish and bead crazy patch purses. Thank you so much for your suggestion. Have a blessed day!

[Carmen]

I sometimes have trouble when I knit alotor am doing hadnd quilting. Gripping around a hoop can be stressful. There are some newer hoops on the market that don't have the high side, they are flat. Take frequent breaks, don't try to get it done on a deadline. Dreaming Quilts : ) Carmen

[Liz in Kansas]

Frequent breaks is really important - or so the experts tell us. Easier said than done, I know! I've had mild success with setting the timer on my watch - 30 or 45 minutes. Search the web for stretching exercises (usually on carpal tunnel sites) and do them when you take a break. I've also got an ice pack I put on my hands when I really overdo it! Being able to switch back and forth between right and left hands is useful, so keep up with your training. Nothing works perfectly, but every little bit helps. Keep in mind that I don't have all the answers, just what sometimes works for me.

[Ann Louise Fetters]

And a big thank you to you both; I am a professional organist, so am REALLY learning to be loose with that LH..........the ice pack I have used, and it helps. I wear a wrist splint at night to keep it rested. When I practice for long periods, I take an every 50 min break; I shall now take more specific breaks while beading. Again, thanks to all ya'll!!!!!!!!!

[Averyclaire]

Besides the carpal tunnel splint...there is an elastic bandage that looks like a glove without fingers. It supports the entire hand while sewing, beading, etc. I have a friend who uses it faithfully. You might try it.

[Judy B]

I have trouble gripping a needle if I overdo things, but have found 'Hand-Eze' support gloves a big help. They are fingerless, but support the wrist and maintain an even temperature of the hand and wrist, according to the packet, but however they do it, they work for me. I do sometimes have to wear them overnight if my hands are bad, but am slowly learning not to work too long.

[Ann Louise Fetters]

WOW! Have never heard of them...thanks so much!

[Carojo]

I like the Hand-Eze glove for my stitching hand. For the 'supporting' hand I have used a hand/wrist brace (in the pharmacy dept with other braces - knee, ankle etc). It has a metal splint along the thumb part. Because it keeps my hand somewhat rigid it keeps me from gripping too hard. Holding a thin layer or two of fabric is difficult but in a hoop is good, you sort of balance the hoop in your hand rather than grip it.

[Ann Louise Fetters]

AHAAAAA! I slammed my hand in the door this summer, and to keep the healing safe, not to 'hit it' in a tender spot, I wore the splint, and could sew with it! So, that is surely a good idea. Thanks so much.

[Violette Severin]

I do the carpal tunnel exercises too. When I am piecing, I hold the needle still in my right hand and move the fabric onto the needle with my left hand. I began this technique after surgery on my right shoulder a few years ago. It was the only way I could sew at the time. I guess you could alternate which hand you move so that all of the stress is not on one hand.

[Ann Louise Fetters]

Thank you!!!!