Self-Care for the Forearms

If you are having discomfort in your forearms, these tips may help reduce your pain and prevent further injury. Try them out, then choose one or two to focus on for several weeks before adding more.

1.    Support your forearms when you can, but do not rest them or your wrists on anything while typing.

2.    Don’t pound on the keys; use a light touch.

3.    Hold the mouse lightly as if you were cradling a small bird; don’t grip it hard.

4.    When typing, keep all your fingers and your thumb softly curved. If you tend to keep your pinkie finger raised or stiff, begin trying to relax it to avoid injury.

5.    Take mini-breaks every few minutes. Stop, let your arms hang to your side, shake them out, and take several full breaths.

6.    Stretch frequently. Hold your arms out in front of you, and bend your wrists one way and then another. Ask your massage therapist for specific stretches and self-massage techniques for the forearms and wrists.

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*** Massage should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical treatment: a physician should be consulted in all matters relating to health and especially in relation to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. In some cases, a primary physician’s approval/prescription is required before any bodywork is administered. Care should be taken during pregnancy, particularly in the use of essential oils and pressure points. Essential oils should not be ingested, and should be used for babies and children only on professional advice.

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