Ergonomically Correct Garden Hand Tools for Hand Pain, Tendonitis, and Arthritis

Gardening is a wonderful and fulfilling hobby, but for those who suffer from hand pain, tendonitis, or arthritis, it can be a daunting task.

The repetitive movements and gripping required for many gardening tasks can exacerbate discomfort and pain. As a Physical Therapist and master gardener, I know that with the right selection of garden hand tools, you can enjoy your garden while minimizing strain on your hands and wrists.

In this blog post, we'll explore what to look for in ergonomically correct garden hand tools, and then dive into how Felco hand pruners measure up in terms of ergonomics.

What to Look for in Ergonomically Correct Garden Hand Tools

1. Handle Design:

- Look for garden hand tools with handles that have a comfortable, non-slip grip. Soft, cushioned handles can help reduce the pressure on your hands.

- Handles should be designed to accommodate the natural position of your hand to prevent wrist strain. Angled or contoured handles are often better for ergonomics.

- Choose tools with handles that are proportionate to your hand size. Tools that are too large or too small can cause discomfort.

2. Weight:

- Lighter tools are generally easier to manage and put less strain on your hand and wrist muscles. Opt for lightweight materials like aluminum or fiberglass.

- Consider tools with adjustable weight, such as tools with detachable heads or multiple interchangeable heads, so you can customize the weight to your preference.

3. Grip Size:

- Garden tools with adjustable or interchangeable grips are beneficial. These allow you to find the perfect fit for your hand, reducing the risk of strain.

- Look for textured or rubberized grips to improve grip and reduce the force needed to hold the tool.

4. Joint-Friendly Features:

- Tools with a spring-loaded mechanism or ratchet system can reduce the force required to make cuts or dig into the soil.

- Choose tools with a locking mechanism to secure them in place during use, preventing accidental hand movements and reducing strain.

5. Length and Reach:

- Long-handled tools can help you avoid bending or stooping, which can be challenging if you have hand pain or arthritis.

- Adjustable handle length can be especially helpful for customizing the tool to your body.

I have listed ergonomic hand tools on my Amazon Store here

Let's Compare 3 different models of Garden Hand Pruners:

Links to models in video:

Felco F-2: https://amzn.to/43XCCY7

Fiskars forges bypass: https://amzn.to/3YoLrZR

Corona: https://amzn.to/3Qr82TB

Fiskars snips: https://amzn.to/47nCiou

I use Felco Hand Pruners when I garden. Let's see if they are ergonomically correct:

Felco is a renowned brand in the gardening world, known for its high-quality hand pruners. Their pruners are celebrated for their ergonomic design, making them a popular choice for gardeners with hand pain, tendonitis, or arthritis.

Here are some ergonomic features of Felco hand pruners:

1. Handle Design:

- Felco pruners feature lightweight, aluminum handles with a comfortable, non-slip coating.

- The handles are angled and contoured to reduce wrist strain and promote a natural hand position.

2. Weight:

- Felco pruners are relatively lightweight, making them easy to use for extended periods without excessive hand and wrist fatigue.

3. Grip Size:

- The pruners offer adjustable hand grips and different sized pruners, allowing you to find the most comfortable fit for your hand.

4. Joint-Friendly Features:

- Felco pruners come equipped with a spring mechanism that reduces the effort required to make cuts.

- They also feature a secure locking mechanism for added safety and control during use.

5. Length and Reach:

- Felco pruners are available in various sizes, but they do not have a long reach like a general long handled branch lopper.

Here are the different Models of Felco Hand Pruners

Gardening can be a therapeutic and enjoyable activity, even if you have hand pain, tendonitis, or arthritis. Selecting ergonomically correct garden hand tools, like Felco hand pruners, can significantly enhance your gardening experience while minimizing discomfort and strain. When choosing tools, prioritize handle design, weight, grip size, joint-friendly features, and length to ensure they cater to your specific needs and conditions. With the right tools in hand, you can continue nurturing your garden with ease and pleasure.

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