For many people, reading is a welcome break from the hectic pace of everyday life. Whether it's for relaxation, inspiration, or education – a good book can immerse us in fascinating worlds. But what can we do when the pleasure of reading is spoiled by tingling hands while reading, sore hands when reading or Pain when reading disturbed? In this blog post, we want to find out what lies behind these symptoms, what the causes are, and what solutions can help you read better without suffering physical discomfort.
What are the symptoms?
Tingling hands often occur when nerves or blood vessels in the arm or wrist are compressed. This can manifest as an unpleasant tingling or numb feeling. At the same time, sore hands caused by both muscle tension and overexertion. Especially when reading for long periods or when using an unfavourable posture, these Pain when reading appear. Asleep hands, medically known as paresthesia, is another typical symptom that often indicates poor circulation and can severely impair the reading experience.
Common causes of complaints
- Incorrect posture An uncomfortable sitting position can lead to tension and pain. We often unconsciously adopt postures that strain both our back and arms.
- Long reading times without breaks Constant sitting and Reading without regularly scheduled breaks can overload the muscles and lead to sore hands when reading lead.
- Holding a book or tablet The way you hold your medium plays a crucial role. An unergonomic position often leads to tension and can cause symptoms such as tingling hands while reading strengthen.
Tools for an ergonomic reading experience
To enjoy reading without discomfort, special aids can be of great help:
- Reading pillow Reading pillows provide optimal support for your back and arms. They're ideal for maintaining a comfortable reading position, whether in bed, on the sofa, or in an armchair. The pillow helps keep your head and neck in a neutral position, reducing the likelihood of tension.
- Bookiepad A bookiepad is a handy tool that allows you to comfortably rest your book or tablet on a stable surface. It can be used at various angles to optimize your view and reduces hand strain by eliminating the need to constantly hold the book.
- Reading bone The Reading Bone is an ergonomic, bone-shaped pillow that's easily adjustable. It provides support for your arms and books, relieving strain on your hands. You can also use it anywhere—whether in bed, on the sofa, or while traveling.
Measures to alleviate
- Ergonomic posture Make sure you maintain an upright posture. Use pillows or special reading aids to support your back and keep your arms in a neutral position.
- Regular breaks Take a short break every 20-30 minutes. Stand up, stretch your muscles, and allow circulation to return. Use this time to simply move around.
- Correct technique when holding books or tablets Hold your book with both hands and change your position regularly. A book stand can help provide a better view and relieve strain on your hands.
- Finger and hand exercises Incorporate simple stretching exercises into your reading routine. Rotate your wrists, make fists, and stretch your fingers to release tension.
- Heat or cold therapy Use heat (e.g., a warm towel) for tension, or cold (e.g., an ice pack) to relieve pain and swelling. This can be applied to the affected areas.
Conclusion
Tingling, aching and numb hands while reading are symptoms that can severely impair reading pleasure. However, with small adjustments and mindfulness, these discomforts can often be reduced or even avoided. Maintain an ergonomic reading posture, incorporate breaks, and follow simple exercises to fully enjoy the reading experience.