March 31, 2004

By: Maxwell Stone
Website: http://www.1st-in-fitness.com

Occupational therapists urge campaigners to 'Grip and Grin' to prevent hand injuries from handshaking

Handshaking on the campaign trail can be hazardous to a candidate's health, according to a brochure published by the American Occupational Therapy Association.

"Campaigners may shake hundreds of hands a day, and any activity repeated over and over is a repetitive motion," said AOTA President Karen Jacobs. "That's why occupational therapists are offering the tips in our "Grip & Grin" brochure," she said.

Jacobs said that problems could show up not only in the hands, but also the back, neck and shoulders because those parts of the body are important components in the motion of a handshake. To reduce pain, she recommends that campaigners keep their arms close to the body, their elbows at a 90-degree angle, and that they try not to raise their hands above their shoulder to engage in a handshake.

For campaigners already experiencing discomfort, occupational therapists have a special tip. Jacobs says, "Put your arm around the shoulder of the other person before you grab their hand to shake it. This gives you close personal contact with the voter but avoids those crushing handshakes."

"Grip and Grin" also offers simple stretching and strengthening exercises to help keep hands and arms in good condition for long days of pressing the flesh.

Author Notes:

Maxwell Stone contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.1st-in-fitness.com.  A source of information and helpful tips on various types of fitness equipment.