Everyone Needs a Stress Ball

A stress ball, no matter which type, is one of the best things that can help relieve stress and tension throughout your busy workday, no matter where you work. Keeping a stress ball on or in your desk makes it handy to provide relief at a moment's notice, though you may have to resist the overwhelming urge to use your stress ball in target practice on your boss.

A stress ball is considered a toy by many people, and toy or not, it provides relief to tired, aching hands and can prevent symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and mild arthritis pain when used properly. The stress ball, usually covered with smooth, nylon material, is meant to be manipulated by the hand in order to facilitate muscle and tendon strengthening through the use of tension, followed by relaxation techniques. Using one hand to play with the stress ball also exercises the fingers and helps loosen up stiff digits that have been typing all day, or writing reports or creating that new company budget.

There are many different types and styles of a stress ball, though many are made of foam rubber while others are filled with gel-type substances of different densities. If you're searching for a stress ball that will relieve tired and aching muscles, or for exercise, look for a stress ball that is firmer than a foam model, as that will provide maximum muscle tension during use. If you're looking for something to just get your fingers moving and want something easier, look for the type filled with foam. Some newer brands of stress balls are filled with powder and are coated with a thin membrane of plastic. Did you know that you can make your own stress ball at home? For use as a mild relief for arthritis or symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, fill a small balloon with baking soda. This type of stress ball is perfect for hand therapy when recovering from minor surgeries or to help strengthen fingers and joints due to injury or symptoms of arthritis.

Keeping your hands strong and flexible also serves to help prevent arthritis and injury due to everyday chores, such as writing and typing. Many people use a stress ball as a tool to maintain and or increase dexterity in fingers and hands. Though some models of stress ball are round, others aren't. Many are designed in various geometric shapes or figures. Some are covered with cloth, others plastic, some plain and some funny. It doesn't really matter what a stress ball is made of as long as it provides the user with the relief they're looking for; whether it's used for stress relief or exercise.

A stress ball costs less than $5 and can be found in most supermarkets and drug stores. Or, make one yourself using a balloon. While those aren't as durable as a purchased model, they will suit their purpose just fine. Keeping the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the fingers, hands and joints nimble and strong will help prevent multiple medical conditions that may limit your activities. A stress ball is a cheap, inexpensive way to take charge of at least one aspect of your health.