For the last couple of days, I've been suffering from a numbness and weakness in my right (drawing) hand. I work on a computer, using a mouse all day, then in the evenings I work on my drawings. Last night I really struggled on my drawing, not having as much control as usual....

I was just wondering whether any of you guys ever had this problem, and if so, what happened? I'm worried, because I cannot give up my job (I need an income!), but I must draw to keep me sane (you probably understand that).

Got an appointment with the doc soon, so hopefully, if it is RSI, I've caught it early

Just wondering if you got "scoped" on the hand problem, yet? Carpal Tunnel is a surgery but with pleasing results within 6 months. Both my mom and mother-in-law had it done about 8 years ago and still have great use with it. My mom has her "days" when it still is painful in the area.....but, she is in her 70s so she chalks it up to plain ol' Osteo junk.

Take care and find your path to wellness.

Geary

I had a similar problem a few years back. Was working all day on a computer, then drawing long hours in the evening.

My wrist and elbow joint began to complain - pins and needles and weak hand. The doctor made noises about RSI and Capel Tunnel and threatened surgery. Fortunatly my husband works in a industry which deals with these complaints and could point me to alternative remedys.

1. As Vickylyn says - Have a GOOD rest. Don't overdo it.
2. Change the way you sit at the computer. I ended up with one of those kneeling seats which force proper posture and takes the strain off the wrists
3. Take up an exercise to strengthen the upper body/arms. I swim - usually 2 sometimes 3 times a week, 1km each time. This not only helps strengthen the upper body and hands, it is also very relaxing. (The spa after helps too)
4. The squishy rubber ball - don't laugh, but get one of those stress balls and squeeze it every day for a minute or so. This helps the hand.

I still get twinges, but it is managable now.

good health to you - try to avoid surgery if you can!

Linda Weil
www.users.bigpond.net.au/lindaweil/

I also make a habit of taking an anti-inflamatory if I'm going to be doing any marathon sessions.

It worked for me it might help you, couldn't hurt as a preventative measure.

Nancy Anthony
Expressive Portraiture & Fine Art
http://www.atkinsonstudiosonline.com

I went to the doctor, but he was a locum and didn't show much concern (obviously didn't understand how important having the use of my right hand is!)

Anyway, he kind of brushed it off and told me to rest it and stretch when I can. It's hard to rest it when your job requires that you use it constantly! Anyway, I went to the occupational health nurse at work and I've ordered ergonomic equipment and installed a program on my comp that interrupts what I'm doing to remind me to stretch. I'm not drawing at the moment, either

Linda, I think you're right in that exercise could help - I have tiny skinny wrists and ankles and hands and feet get cold - so I need to improve my circulation and strength.

but not today, it's my birthday!!

thanks for sharing everyone, I appreciate it

Linda Weil
www.users.bigpond.net.au/lindaweil/

Wendy

- Melissa (aka: Honey Bee)

I agree with the exercise tips but also (for the time being, if you haven't already tried this), you may want to take a couple of ibuprophen. It's obviously not a permanent solution but it certainly does wonders for me when my back hurts. I have a SLIGHT scoliosis...after I've been drawing for a while, it hurts from bending the wrong/right way lol :-/.

Anyhow, HAPPY BIRTHDAY

~Dana Grinstein~