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Wrist: Exercises

Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Prayer stretch

slide 1 of 3

slide 1 of 3, Prayer stretch,

Put your palms together in front of your chest just below your chin.
Slowly lower your hands toward your waistline, keeping your hands close to your stomach and your palms together. You will feel a mild to medium stretch under your forearms.
Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Wrist flexor stretch

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slide 2 of 3, Wrist flexor stretch,

Extend your affected arm in front of you with your palm facing down.
Bend back your wrist on your affected arm, pointing your fingers up.
With your other hand, gently bend your wrist farther until you feel a mild to medium stretch in your forearm.
Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
Repeat 2 to 4 times.
Repeat steps 1 through 5. But this time extend your affected arm in front of you with your palm facing up. Then bend back your wrist, pointing your fingers down.
It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other arm.

Wrist extensor stretch (fingers straight or fist)

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slide 3 of 3, Wrist extensor stretch (fingers straight or fist),

Extend the arm with the affected wrist in front of you and point your fingers toward the floor.
With your other hand, gently bend your wrist farther until you feel a mild to moderate stretch in your forearm.
Hold the stretch for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
Repeat 2 to 4 times.
It's a good idea to repeat these steps with your other wrist.

When you can do this stretch with ease and no pain, try the exercise with your hand in a fist instead of with your fingers pointing down.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

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