How To Relieve Wrist Pain: My Top Tips For Crocheters

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Hello again! Today I’m sharing my favorite ways to relieve wrist pain from crocheting or crafting. We’re getting closer to the holidays, which means most of us crafters are starting to buckle down on gift-making. For me, that means I’m crocheting even more than usual, and it also means I end up feeling the effects in my hands and wrists.

I’m sure I’m not the only one- most activities that involve repetitive hand motions (such as crocheting, knitting, cross stitching, embroidering, etc…) come with some degree of wrist pain. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to help combat the common aches and soreness associated with so many of the crafts we love.

While this post will be fairly crochet-centric, these tips can apply to anyone who experiences wrist pain or soreness due to crafting or other activities. As always, home remedies like these are not a cure-all, and if your pain is hindering your ability to craft or gets in the way of your everyday routine, you should talk to your doctor and go from there.

Read on for my top tips for relieving wrist pain!

1. Watch your posture

This one may surprise you, but sitting incorrectly or slouching can cause you to hold and use your hook differently, which can cause slouching. Make sure the place you’re sitting is sturdy and supportive, and try not to slouch! Using a firm pillow for support can also be helpful.

Adjusting your posture should be the first step you take to relieve wrist pain from crocheting. Targeting the source of the problem, instead of just treating it, will help you relieve wrist pain and prevent it in the future.

2. Try wearing compression gloves while you crochet

Wearing gloves designed especially for crafters is a huge help if you deal with wrist pain during your crochet time.

I love my Stress Relief gloves by Lion Brand; they’re a lifesaver during long stretches of marathon crocheting (aka ‘holy crap this gift is for tomorrow and I’m only a third of the way finished’ crocheting).

They come in different sizes! I wear the small size I have small-to-medium hands, and they’re nice and snug even after frequent use.

3. Or, try a wrist brace.

There are several different types of wrist braces that you can choose from. My absolute favorite is the Ace Brand Sleep Support wrist brace. I love it so much, I wear it every night! It’s soft and cushioned on the inside and outside, so it’s amazingly comfortable to sleep in.

It’s adjustable for your right or left hand, and it provides the support I need to be able to relax my wrist totally. I’ve never been bothered by it or woken up in the middle of the night needing to take it off, since the fabric lining the inside is nice and cool.

I would 100% recommend this brace to anyone who has trouble with their wrist, it has really helped me!

4. For a topical treatment, try a warming balm or oil to relax your muscles.

Many people swear by Tiger Balm to relieve joint and muscle pain, arthritis pain, stiff muscles, and more. You can also try a muscle rub, massage oil, or pain relief cream to help warm and soothe stiff muscles.

I prefer herbal and homeopathic remedies, so I like to use anything with cinnamon or clove, since it smells good and provides a gentle warming sensation without being too overbearing. Just make sure whatever you’re using is formulated for topical use- the last thing you want is a burn or allergic reaction on your crocheting hand!

5. Help prevent wrist pain by stretching your wrists and hands.

There are lots of easy exercises you can do at home to stretch your wrists and help prevent future pain and soreness. Try squeezing a stress ball (you could even crochet one!), or using a finger strengthener like these.

Pinterest has lots of infographics and ideas for specific exercises, and I’d recommend checking that out and trying some of the exercises to see what feels best.

6. When crocheting, loosen your tension

If you crochet too tightly, you may be causing yourself wrist pain. Try to focus on loosening your stitches, and relaxing your arms and wrists as you crochet. As a bonus, this also helps your crochet projects turn out more flexible, which is ideal for garments and accessories! It’s a win-win.

You might find that loosening your tension will relieve wrist pain as well as pain in your shoulders and back. If you struggle with stitches that are too tight, you can also try using a larger hook size for your projects.

And that’s it! There are plenty of other ways to help reduce and relieve wrist pain, but these are my favorite tips and what has worked for me personally. Your results may vary, and like I said before, check with your doctor first if you have frequent or chronic pain that’s keeping you from doing the things you enjoy.

I hope these tips are helpful to you! I’ll be glad to answer any questions you have, just drop me a comment here on the blog. Here’s to crocheting without wrist pain!