Almost everyone has experienced stiffness in the joints of their fingers. Stiffness in your fingers can be caused by frequent, repetitive use of your hands in daily activities such as writing, typing, cooking or holding a telephone for extended periods of time. You can perform specific, beneficial stretches to alleviate stiffness in your finger joint. If stiffness is the result of an injury, consult your doctor.
Finger and Wrist Stretch
This stretch helps alleviate tension and stiffness in your fingers, hands and wrist. Stretch your arms straight out in front of you at chest height. Point the fingers of your right hand. Use your left hand to gently stretch each finger of your right hand back toward your wrist. Then use your left hand to simultaneously stretch all of the fingers of your right hand back toward your wrist. Stretch your fingers in the opposite direction, using the left hand to gently press the fingers of your right hand down toward the floor, then press your entire hand down toward the floor. Repeat on your left hand.
Fist Stretch
The fist stretch is a type of progressive relaxation exercise for your entire hand. Make a fist with your right hand. Clench the fist tightly for a few seconds, then slowly open your hand and stretch your fingers as far apart from each other as possible. Hold the stretch for a few seconds, then relax your hand. Repeat the stretch 10 to 20 times, then perform the stretch on your left hand.
Hand and Shoulder Stretch
This stretch releases stiffness and tightness in your hands, arms and shoulders. Sit or stand with your head and neck aligned with your spine. Interlace your fingers and stretch your arms straight out in front of you. Rotate your palms away from you so that they are facing the wall in front of you. Keep your arms straight and press your fingers toward the wall while keeping them interlaced. Spread your shoulder blades and round your back. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then release.
Salutation Seal
The salutation seal is a yoga posture that helps create flexibility in your fingers, hands and wrists. It also invokes feelings of calmness and stress relief, according to "Yoga Journal." Sit in a cross-legged position on the floor. Bring the palms of your hands together in front of your heart with your thumbs resting in the middle of your chest. Press your hands together equally. Close your eyes and bow your head toward your heart. Stay in this pose for up to five minutes.
