4 Ways to Stretch Wrists, Hands and Fingers

1. If You Work Your Wrists at Work, Take the Time to Work Your Wrists

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition affecting those who spend working hours at a computer, but with regular stretches for the wrists, hands and fingers carpal tunnel can be prevented. To begin, stretch your left arm straight in front of you with your palm face down. Lift your fingers up and then gently pull them up and back towards with your right hand. Hold the stretch for up to 30 seconds and then allow your fingers to drop down. Again, pull your fingers in towards the underside of your forearm with your right hand. Hold the wrist stretch for up to 30 seconds and repeat on the opposite arm.

2. Finger Flexion Feels Fantastic

Extend your left arm straight in front of your body and turn the palm face down. Start with your pinky finger, gently pulling the fingers back with your right hand just until you feel a nice stretch in your fingers, palm and wrist. Don't try to keep your wrist straight, instead, allow the gentle pull to lift your wrist as you stretch each finger. The stretch should feel good, so if you begin to feel discomfort, lighten up on the stretch a bit. Hold each finger stretch for up to 30 seconds and then begin working on your right hand.

3. Helping Hands

Bend your elbows, lifting your hands up in front of your. Spread your fingers apart as far as you can, drawing them back to create a stretch through the palms. Hold the open position for a few moments and then draw your thumbs inward towards the center of your palm until you feel the stretch. After holding for a few seconds, make tight fists with your hands and then open again, spreading your fingers as far apart as possible and beginning the stretch once again. Repeat the entire sequence 3 to 5 times to increase blood circulation and reduce stress in the hands, wrists and fingers.

4. The Prayer Pose

There are many yoga poses for the hands, wrists and fingers, but the basic prayer pose is one of the best. Simply place your palms together in a prayer position with your fingers together and press your hands into one another firmly. Keep the base of your hands together as you slowly drop your hands as far as you can without separating any part of your palms. Hold the stretch for up to 30 seconds, repeating as necessary.