Stretching hands, wrists, and forearms regularly is very important for frequent smartphone, computer, or tablet users, Human Resources advises in a message sent Monday to UWindsor staff and faculty.

It shares examples from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety to help keep flexible, reduce the risk of injury, and prevent or relieve discomfort:

1. Start with your hand open. Make a fist. Keep your thumb straight. Slide your fingertips up your palm so the tips of your fingers are near the base of your fingers.
2. With your hand open and facing down, gently bend your wrist from side to side, as far as possible.
3. Start by stretching your arm and hand out and slowly rotate the wrist down until you feel a stretch. Next, rotate the palm up until you feel a stretch.
4. Grasp your hand and hold your fingers with the other hand. Slowly bend your wrist down until you feel a stretch. Then slowly bend your wrist up until you feel the stretch.
5. Sitting with your elbows on the table and palms together, slowly lower wrists to the table until you feel a stretch (your elbows will move outward a bit).

Read the entire Wellness Tip of the Week.