After much searching I’ve found a product that provides relief for the cramped hands and in extreme cases, carpal tunnel syndrome, that some knitters and spinners experience. I use pure Arnica salve for relief from the swelling and pain. The best product I’ve discovered is this one from Gaia Garden: http://www.gaiagarden.com/products/salves/18116

I rub this salve into my hands and wrists every night before bed. It’s fairly heavy, the salve absorbs better than a cream, so I only use it at night. During the day, when I want to be able to knit or spin and not have that greasy feeling on my hands, I use a cream . The cream I use is a paraben free, high herb potency preparation made by Martin and Pleasance. It’s simply called ‘ Arnica’. I buy it at my local health store. There are a few brands available; I liked the “high potency’ label on this one. The arnica seems to go right into the problem area, relieving swelling, thereby relieving pain.

Regular use of Arnica salve and cream has enabled me to avoid surgery on my left wrist (I had carpal tunnel surgery on my right wrist 6 years ago) and to continue knitting and spinning.

I thought this information might be useful to other crafters out there.

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