how do you avoid shaking hands with arthritic hands?
02-15-2011, 05:53 AM
#42
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: S. W. Indiana
Posts: 7,484
Originally Posted by toomanycats
I have arthritis in my hands and some days is very painful and sensitive. It hurts alot to have someone grab a hand. How do you polietly refuse to shake someones hand that is offered without looking like I am nuts or stuck up?
a friend has RA and really bad hands. She grabs the wrist of the person shaking hands and then pats the shaker's hand with her other hand.
02-15-2011, 06:04 AM
#44
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: S. W. Indiana
Posts: 7,484
Originally Posted by steelecg
I would think most people would understand a polite reason - I agree with bkb
02-15-2011, 06:16 AM
#45
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Central Minnesota
Posts: 87
I have a story that still gets me. Years ago I was being introduced to a priest, & the 'introducer' explained that I had arthritis. The priest shook my hand with such a death grip my eyes welled up with tears, then he said "Well, I guess we'll have to pray for you."
I've hardened some since then and now I extend both hands, one hand is ready to pry their hands off mine if they squeeze, and I just say "That hurts." I have had RA for 34 years. There's a lot going on that the general public cannot see, that's for sure.
I've hardened some since then and now I extend both hands, one hand is ready to pry their hands off mine if they squeeze, and I just say "That hurts." I have had RA for 34 years. There's a lot going on that the general public cannot see, that's for sure.
02-15-2011, 07:01 AM
#46
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 47
Oh boy, I can relate to that problem. I have severe arthritis in my right hand. When I am offered a handshake, I put my right hand in my pocket and offer my left hand, with a cordial smile. One day our pastor asked me why I always offer the left hand and I explained to him that I have arthritis and it is too painful to use my right hand. I do wear gloves also.
02-15-2011, 08:34 AM
#48
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Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Full Time RV'er
Posts: 485
My Grandfather never "shook hands". He offered one finger for you to shake. If he really liked you, he offered two fingers. I never received an explanation as to why he did this. It was just him. He was one of 24 children and left home when a young boy, maybe something happened to him then.
02-15-2011, 08:47 AM
#49
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Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Myrtle Beach, SC
Posts: 8,117
I used to have that problem, too. It was mostly when guys shook my hand, and overdid the 'firm' handshake. I started grimacing when the handshake was too firm. Then I'd explain that I had arthritis and today it was really bothering me. Never had the problem again.
But I think Amma's method is far superior to mine. It's so much more welcoming!
But I think Amma's method is far superior to mine. It's so much more welcoming!
02-15-2011, 08:57 AM
#50
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Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: North Texas
Posts: 8,710
When people try to hug me , I always say, "easy.easy.easy" Most of my friends know I have bone pain so they give me fairy hugs. GOtta love them. I hate gloves but maybe just nod and say, nice to meet you but ..... I understand those who slap on backs or give light punches but really????? ANd i am a very huggy touchy person myself.
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