Dealing with wrist pain

[mads.blinkilde]

I am currently dealing with some wrist pain, probably due to excessive use of computers for years. Both drawing and my job requires working with my hands, and I feel like the discomfort is sometimes impacting my work.

I wondered if anyone has experience dealing with this issue as an artist

[Inkpendude]

My advice would be to take a break if you can, at least from drawing. If you really have to, make sure you are drawing from your shoulder instead of only moving your wrist. Pain is your brain telling you to stop doing the thing, and you have to listen to your body. the same repetitive movement is the problem, overworking it.

"taking a break" could mean a day, a week, or even a few minutes in between drawing.

I do go throught the same things, Usually happens because I start using my wrist, and after a few hours it starts to hurt. I thought that I just had to do hand exercices before drawing to just get used to it, but no ammout of hand streching is gonna solve it (it does helps, but not in the long term).

[mads.blinkilde]

Thanks for sharing your advice. I will try to take breaks more often, and see if it helps. It would probably not hurt to get some more exercise!

I never considered that it could be harmful drawing with the wrist. I started drawing using a small tablet, and mostly used my wrist since there was not room for movement. I have since moved on to larger ones, but my technique is still somewhat unchanged

[snakker]

I agree with using the shoulder, also consider changing grip to classic draughtsmen grip, using a looser grip and propping up the tablet (I personally use a parblo stand for that effect)

As for the wrist pain itself - don't neglect it! if it is a constant problem or recurring problem or if you have very severe pain or swelling you should get it looked at by a pro (doctor)

cheers and get better mate!

[mads.blinkilde]

Cool, I will try that out

It only feels mildly painful - it seems like it flares up when I use my mouse/pen for too long during the day. In the past I could handle long sessions of drawing/gaming without discomfort. If I can't manage it by improving grip, and pacing myself more, I will consider consulting a doctor for advice

Thank you!

[andhmichaelguerra]

I’ve been there with wrist pain—it’s frustrating when it starts messing with your work. As a designer, I went through a phase where even holding a pen hurt. What helped me was switching to an ergonomic mouse and taking more breaks throughout the day. Also, I ended up seeing a GP I found through https://gpratings.uk, which was super helpful because I wanted someone who understood how much my job depended on my hands. They suggested some stretches and exercises that made a noticeable difference over time.