  Tips for Good Hand Health |
Does this happen to you: You email a friend or business associate and quickly get an auto-response message that goes something like this:
"Thanks for your message. Unfortunately, I'm suffering from RSI and have to limit my computer time. Please be patient and I'll try to respond as soon as possible."
This message is returned to me at an alarming (and increasing) rate. And as I worked feverishly to get Street Tech together for the July 4th premier, I too started to get frightening little pains in my wrists and numbness in my fingers. Being someone who already suffers from a debilitating form of arthritis, I'm amazed that I hadn't already developed some form of RSI (repetitive strain injury), the general term that describes the cumulative chronic "micro-injuries" associated with repetitive movements and work fatigue.
Now, my saving grace is a pair of stretchy, fingerless typing gloves called "Handeze." When I first got them, I thought they looked dorky (mine are an ugly beige), were too tight and made my hands sweat (not to mention their goofy name). Now that I actually need them, they're a godsend. I've gotten used to their fit and feel to the point that I often find myself wearing them even after I'm through working.
 Handeze are made of something called Med-A-Likra®, a stretchy Ace bandage-like material that forms tightly around your hand and especially your wrists. They provide needed support and massage your hands as you work. They also generate heat which helps in preventing trauma to the tissue in your hands. They've definitely made a difference in how my hands feel after a long day of keyboarding. You can get Handeze in either beige or a much more attractive dark blue. I know one person who dyed hers black, but I bet the dye runs as the gloves get warm. Maybe since we all seem destined for RSI (if we don't take better care of ourselves), Dome (or somebody else) will start making gloves in cooler colors. In the meantime, dare to make a fashion blunder and get something on your hands. I don't wanna get one of those RSI messages from you, and I just pray I won't have to cue one up myself. - Gareth Branwyn [7/24/97]
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