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I’m on the computer all day at work and have increasing pain in my dominant right hand/wrist. Anyone else deal with this?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Mobile, AL

My right wrist has been flaring, and I’m trying to figure out how to manage it while I’m still working on finding a medication to stabilize the inflammation.

I’m on the computer most of the day at work and have tried changing my hand/wrist position, resting my arm on the desk, and using a wrist rest while typing, but nothing seems to make much difference. The only real relief I get is when I leave work or on the weekends.

Because it’s my dominant hand, I also use it for pretty much everything… read more

August 12
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Reactions
A myRAteam Member

Dropsky Thumb Brace 4 Pack – Waterproof Thumb Splint (actually for golf) have helped some, especially when swollen. I also use Icy/Hot and a pretty warm bath/jacuzzi. Wrist pain is hard to deal with - sorry you're having this issue.

August 12
A myRAteam Member

Gloves braces. There's also a wrist support you put on the desk for the computer

August 12
A myRAteam Member

Compression gloves work well. I also use volteran cream. I don't work anymore I'm medically retired and disabled. I cannot be on the computer long. Good luck to you.

August 12
myRAteam

Managing wrist pain from RA while working at a computer all day is genuinely tough — especially when it's your dominant hand doing everything. Many myRAteam members deal with this exact challenge. Here are some approaches worth exploring:

Supportive Devices
- A wrist splint during work hours can help reduce pain and Show Full Answer

Managing wrist pain from RA while working at a computer all day is genuinely tough — especially when it's your dominant hand doing everything. Many myRAteam members deal with this exact challenge. Here are some approaches worth exploring:

Supportive Devices
- A wrist splint during work hours can help reduce pain and inflammation — some members also wear them at night to prevent stiffness
- Compression gloves are highly rated by many myRAteam members, especially for typing. One myRAteam member said, *"Compression gloves are the best — I type all day and when my hands are bad, they are such a lifesaver!"*

Topical Relief Options
Since Arnicare hasn't helped, other topical options members have found useful include:
- CBD salve (where legally available) — one myRAteam member noted their rheumatologist actually recommended it
- "Blue Stop" (emu and tea tree oil-based)

Heat & Cold Therapy
- A paraffin wax bath can provide temporary relief for wrist and joint pain
- Running the wrist under warm water or using a heat pack before activity may help loosen things up
- Cold/ice can help numb pain during flares

Gentle Daily Wrist Exercises
Wrist stretches and rotations done gently each day can help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness — but always check with your rheumatologist first, especially during a flare.

An occupational therapist could also be really valuable here — they can suggest ergonomic tools and joint-protection strategies specifically tailored to computer work. Definitely worth discussing all of these options with your care team!

August 12
A myRAteam Member

Can you work with your HR at work and maybe find a way around this ? Maybe a few blocked out times in your diary for a quick break throughout the day?

August 14

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