Most of us work at a computer all day, but a cushy desk job doesn't come without health risks. Last year on Black Friday, around the sixth hour of nonstop scrolling for deals as part of my job as a style editor, my hand and wrist gave out on me.
My dad, caring guy that he is, heard me complaining about carpal tunnel strain. On Christmas morning, he presented me with the Comfier Wireless Hand Massager. This heated massager has since seen me through many work days, and saved my hand from going completely numb in the process.
This massager helps relieve carpal tunnel symptoms with a heated five-finger chamber. The warmth relieves tension on your joints and the compression effect relaxes your palm.
Here's why I love it
It soothes my carpal tunnel symptoms. Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when a specific nerve in the wrist is compressed, causing a painfully numb, tingling sensation. Inside, the device massages the back of my hand, knuckles, and palm by squeezing out any knots. It doesn't reach my wrist, but when I use it consistently, it's super effective at relieving tension in my hand and fingers.
It warms your hand without making it sweat. This is not like reaching into the pain box from Dune. The warming effect is gentle, even on the highest setting. It's just enough heat to help the muscles and achy joints in my hand relax.
It's great for people with anemia. The heat feature stimulates blood circulation. I have long limbs, and my iron-deficient blood doesn't flow to my extremities particularly well. As it warms up, I can feel the blood returning to my hands.
It targets stiff joints with accurate compression. The hand massager has beads that compress around the pressure points in my palm. It also massages around the sides of my knuckles, which is an area I usually forget to tend to. After I take my hand out, I can flex my hands open and shut more easily.
It's portable and fits right onto my desktop. This therapeutic hand massager is light enough that I can walk around with it as I take screen breaks. It doesn't take up too much desk space, so I keep it nearby for whenever my symptoms flare up.
Other ergonomic office tools I recommend
Of course, a hand massager is one small tool to keep in your ergonomic desk setup. Here are our favorite useful desk accessories for a healthier work routine.
A vertical mouse to reduce wrist strain
We've been using the Mac version of the Lift since it was released, and it's one of the best ergonomic mice for those who want to lessen wrist pain. It's very precise, comfortable to use, and can be customized for Mac workflows.
- Eases wrist pain
- Bluetooth connection
- Soft rubber grip
- Not designed for larger hands
A royal cushion for your throne
These cushions can help soothe sore muscles and alleviate back strain. They're available in a variety of designs and thicknesses.
A wobble board for improving balance
This anti-slip wobble board keeps you in perpetual motion as your work from your standing desk. These micro-movements not only reduce fatigue on your joints, but subtly improve your balance.
A budget-friendly standing desk
Read more: the best standing desks
The no-frills Flexispot Standing Desk moves quickly, smoothly, and quietly to reach your desired height. It's an affordable option for people who need a basic standing desk.
Our favorite ergonomic office chair
- Read more: the best office chairs
Thanks to all its adjustability, you can make the Branch Ergonomic Chair fit any workspace. It's a good height for taller desks or work tables and helps improve posture.
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