As a fellow sufferer, I simply explain that I have arthritis and cannot shake hands. I have yet to have someone not understand, they have all been very kind about it. And anyone with arthritis will know what you're talking about.

Bob Dole always carried a pen or pencil in his hand so no one would grab his hand. He had time to explain to them about not shaking hands.

http://projects.newsobserver.com/und...bob_doles_hand

Maybe we need to bring back the etiquette of a curtsey.

I just avoid the hand shake by putting my hand on there sholder to greet them.

I put out both hands, and I place their hand in between mine. This is MY version of a handshake :wink:

I have fibro and arthritis in my hands, and this works for me :wink: I will explain if I get a quizzical look that my ol' hands get hurt easily. :D:D:D

i just put my hands behind my back and nod my head they seem to get the massage good luck

Actually, I just don't like to touch other people's skin for some reason so I give a hug in the winter and wave during the summer, it seems to work. It's only failed a couple of times with extremely pushy people but they only do it once.

If a regular customer comes in they can tell by the way my mom looks how she feels.Even then they will simply pat her hand or shoulder. On a real good day they will hug her. If someone new starts to shake her hand,then I tell them that she has medical problems and cannot shake hands due to the pain.Mom laughs at me and calls me her guard dog and in a way I guess I am and proud to be that. If you tell someone you have a problem that prohibits strong handshakes or any handshakes,most people will understand.

I believe in being upfront and truthful. Just say your arthritis keeps you from giving handshakes these days! But a smile and hello works just fine!

99% of the time if you give people a chance to understand by being upfront and truthful,they will. I would like to believe there is good in everyone,sometimes you just gotta dig a little deeper to find it. A friendly smile is as good or better than a handshake,some days a friendly smile is exactly what I need.