Just read a report that says 80% of furniture finishers get hand issues by age 50.

I was looking at a trade safety report from a big union health fund, and that number really hit me. I've been using gloves more for stain work, but I guess it's not enough. What specific stretches or gear do you all use to keep your hands safe for the long run?

3 comments

3 Comments

margaret_flores1722d ago

Honestly that stat doesn't even surprise me, I mean look at all the cashiers and baristas with wrist braces now. It feels like any job with small, repeated motions just wrecks your hands over time. For me, switching to a palm grip sander helped a ton, way less vibration. I also do this thing where I stretch my fingers back gently against the edge of my workbench a few times a day. It's basic but it keeps them from cramping up. Maybe it's just me but I notice a huge difference when I actually remember to do it.

ellis.victor22d ago

Describe the finger stretch more. Like, do you press each finger back individually or flatten your whole hand against the edge? Trying to picture the exact motion.

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the_lucas3d ago

That stat is scary but it makes sense with all the chemicals and repetitive motions. A woodworker friend swears by those anti-vibration gloves for sanding and saw work. He says they cut down on the fatigue that builds up over the day.