Safe Thanksgiving Cooking Tips from a Hand Therapist
Co-author: Amy Frederickson
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to show gratitude and enjoy the company of family and friends. This year, due to the recent pandemic, our gatherings will be smaller than usual or even celebrated virtually. No matter how you’re celebrating this season, our expert Hand Therapists are talking through some common hand-related injuries and providing tips to keep you safe while cooking and celebrating Thanksgiving.
What is Tech Thumb?
The average American spends more than four hours on their mobile devices texting, checking email, playing games and browsing social media. In addition, many spend a large portion of the work day typing and mousing on the computer.1,2 The trouble with the amount of time spent on these devices is that they are not ergonomically designed for heavy, repetitive use. Unfortunately, many people don’t become aware of this until they experience pain in their hands and thumbs.
Avocad-OH NO! Tips to Avoid Avocado Hand
By Shelia Tenny, OTR/L, CHT and Ellie Park, OTD/s
Avocado’s have increased in popularity, as the heart healthy benefits and high nutrient content of this super-food, have made them a favorite condiment, side dish, salad and sandwich topper. Let’s face it, they’re creamy and delicious! On the down side, there has been a rise in avocado related hand injuries due to self-inflicted knife accidents. The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons has even warned the public regarding the safety risk of cutting avocados.1
Reducing the Risks of Gardening Injuries
Spring is arriving and with that many people are heading outdoors to get started on their gardens. Although gardening is a great activity to spend some time outdoors, it also requires the use of the hands and wrists, which means these joints are at risk for injury.
Preventing Cycling Arm and Hand Injuries
As spring brings warmer weather and adds daylight hours, biking fever spreads!
