Take tension off your hands and wrists

• Use circular needles even when doing flat knitting to distribute the weight more evenly.
• Try not to hold the work up when knitting. Let your lap hold the weight, not your arms.
• Work within your comfort range of needle sizes and yarns. Leave challenges for times when speed is not a concern.

• If you work at a computer all day, try to give yourself a break before you pick up the needles for a long session.
• Take a break from knitting every hour or 45 minutes. Have a cup of tea, or a drink of water. Hydration is essential for preventing cramping.
• How is your posture? If you're tired you're more likely to be hunched forward. This puts strain on your neck and between your shoulder blades.

• You can try changing your dominant hand when knitting continental style
• Take a break for the rest of the day and if possible avoid other physically stressful activities
• Hand braces are available in most craft stores.
• Ice can help reduce inflammation. Just 5 or 10 minutes today will help your hand tomorrow.
• If you're knitting for a gift, it's OK to give just one sock/mitten with a funny note if you can't safely finish the other in time.
• Are you experiencing sharp pain or numbness? If it doesn't improve, see your doctor!