Parkinson’s Stiff Hands? Do the Painting Technique!

Hand and finger stiffness is a huge problem for people with Parkinson’s. I bet at one time or another every one of my fighters and dancers has come to me asking for hand exercises.

I was working with one of my private clients and I asked her to do the thumb painting exercise. When she said, “Wow! That is really hard!” I realized we take the ability to use our thumbs for granted when we don’t have PD.

Today’s quick hit is going to be painting your fingers with your thumb. I started doing this as my own hand therapy after I broke my thumb while hiking years ago. I still do it to warm up my thumbs.

Watch this video to see how to do the painting technique for Parkinson’s stiff hands:

Here are the steps to do the Painting technique:

• Start with your fingers extended as much as you are able to.

• Touch your thumb to the end of your pinky

• Glide your thumb down the finger onto the palm as far as you can then extend your fingers all the way again.

• Repeat with the ring, middle and index finger.

• Switch to the other hand and repeat the process.

Do this exercise several times a day. Whenever you are sitting watching TV, keep working your hands!

If you want more easy-to-follow videos specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s to help with stiffness in your hands, arms, and shoulders, check out my complete hand course: PD Exercises to Improve Hand Dexterity & Mobility. These short, effective videos will help you improve the function of your hands, increase your quality of life, and preserve your independence. We’ve received great testimonials on this course. To own these videos, click here!

Go forth and conquer!

💜 Coach Kimberly