Any tips to help me with my writing?

Hi Michelle

Thanks for reaching out.

The process of handwriting involves various muscles of the upper limb, forearm, wrist, hand, thumb and fingers. 

Maintaining the grasp position of writing for long periods of time, when you have any upper limb weakness,  can certainly result in fatigue.

Upper limb weakness is a common issue that can affect one’s ability to write.

Do you have any upper limb weakness ?

Does it impact your ability to type or use a computer keyboard as well?

An Occupational Therapist can certainly assess your handwriting and make recommendations to help. They can also assist people in the area of returning to work.

If you do experience upper limb weakness there are exercises that can be prescribed to help strengthen your grip strength, grasp, and release . Did the Occupational Therapist prescribe anything like this previously?

Some general tips for writing may include-

• Choose a comfortable pen ( ink, gel, ball point, wide barrel, pencil grip) ,
• Grip the pen loosely,
• Write slowly,
• Press the pen gently against the page,
• Write with your arm, not your fingers ,
• Use line-based paper to help with font size.
• Practice good posture,
• Take regular breaks,  before fatigue sets in
• Limit total writing time,
• Regularly stretch your hands, fingers and wrist

I hope some of this information helps but do feel free to reach out and reply to this email, or give us a call on Ph 1800 787 653. If you need any further assistance.

We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Kind regards

Alicia ( StrokeLine)