Q I am a fisherman working in Dong-gu, Incheon, and I am experiencing severe wrist pain while working with nets. What kind of exercises would be good for me?
A When performing high-load tasks such as net pulling and repetitive twisting, be sure to wear a wrist brace, and perform wrist relaxation stretches for 2 to 3 minutes every 30 minutes of work. During the recovery period, gradually introduce exercises such as grasping a grain of rice (strengthening fine muscles in the fingers and wrists) and gently twisting a towel (resistance exercise). Since starting strengthening exercises while in pain is counterproductive, please begin only after the pain has decreased to 3/10 or less.
Detailed Answer
The fishing environment is highly unfavorable for wrist tendinitis due to the combination of high-load repetitive net pulling and exposure to cold sea winds and cold water. You can reduce friction by lowering the viscosity of the lubricating fluid within the tendons through 5 minutes of wrist warming exercises (rubbing hands or soaking in warm water) before work. Recovery Exercise Phase: Proceed in the following order: ① No-resistance range of motion exercises → ② Low-resistance flexion and extension with rubber bands → ③ Grip strength enhancement → ④ Work-specific movement training. Advancement occurs at each stage based on a pain VAS score of 3 or lower.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Repetitive labor in a cold marine environment creates conditions where cold energy and dampness can easily invade the wrist meridians. At Dongjedang, we design a treatment schedule that allows patients who find it difficult to stop working, such as fishermen, to continue their work while maintaining anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects through bee venom acupuncture and pharmacopuncture. Using herbal medicine tailored to the individual's constitution, we expel cold energy and dampness, and reinforce kidney function—which strengthens bones and joints—and liver function—which governs tendons—enabling tissues to withstand harsh working environments.
Related FAQs
-
Q
I am a factory worker in my 50s working near Dongincheon. Can I receive treatment while continuing to do work that requires using my hands?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I received steroid injections three times, but the condition has recurred. Can I get better at a Korean medicine clinic?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
Can carpal tunnel syndrome or trigger finger occur at the same time as wrist tenosynovitis?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
How should I manage this at home while receiving treatment? Is a cold compress better, or a hot compress?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Is it safe to receive treatment for wrist tendinitis while pregnant?
#Safety