Are Your Thumbs Working Overtime?
How repetitive handwork can lead to thumb tension and what you can do about it.
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I was crocheting a market bag for a last-minute gift.
I finished it, and it's in its new home.
And as crafters do, I decided to make another one!
Mainly because I wanted to try a different yarn and because I love the stitch pattern at the bottom of the bag.
All that crocheting reminded me that C shared something you might relate to:
"I have tightness and numbness in my left thumb muscles from doing front post double treble crochet stitches... and I've also got a crick in my neck."
Whether you crochet or not, if you've ever felt something similar—tension in your hand that somehow travels up to your neck—here's what's likely going on and a few ways to get relief.
Why your thumbs might feel sore or tight
When we're crafting, we often hold our hands in a pincer grip—thumb and fingers pressed together to hold the project, tools, or materials and to keep them steady.
The muscles that control the thumb are working isometrically, meaning they stay contracted without changing position, for long periods. Without rest or support, this can lead to:
Tightness and fatigue at the base of the thumb and into the forearm
Numbness or tingling from nerve compression in the wrist or palm
Thumb tension across creative work
This isn’t just a crochet thing.
Thumb tension can show up in all kinds of creative work:
Knitting – gripping needles tightly, especially when cabling, using double-pointed needles, or working magic loop
Yarn dyeing – gripping tongs, squeeze bottles, or tying/untying skeins
Sewing, embroidery, quilting, or beading – holding needles, tweezers, or rotary cutters; pulling thread or wire through tight spots
Tech editing or digital design – gripping a stylus, pen, or extended mouse use
If you work across multiple crafts or switch between digital and hands-on tasks, your thumbs might be working overtime.
Quick resets for your thumbs and hands
Here are a few simple resets to ease tension and restore mobility in your thumbs and hands:
Thumb stretch
Extend one arm forward with your palm facing down.
Use your other hand to gently pull your thumb sideways away from your palm and slightly back toward your wrist.
Hold for 10–15 seconds.
Thumb circles
Make a loose fist.
Slowly draw 5–10 small circles with your thumb in each direction.
Palm massage
Use your opposite thumb to gently massage the base of your thumb and palm.
Massage ball reset
If you have a textured massage ball, place it on a table or firm surface.
Gently press your palm and thumb area into the ball and slowly roll in small circles or along the length of your palm for 30–60 seconds.
Adjust pressure as preferred.
Why I love the massage ball: It's small, portable, and gets into tight thumb and palm muscles in a way your fingers often can't.
I keep one on my desk, and it's perfect for quick breaks.
I also use this little ball for other tight spots, not just the hands. It's very versatile, and I’ll share more ways to use it in an upcoming blog post.
Here's the link to the massage ball I use.
Triggerpoint Massage Ball (affiliate link) [will insert affiliate link if reinstated]
How to use these resets
You can do these resets one at a time or use them all in a full reset for tired hands.
Together, they make a great:
Warm-up before working with your hands
Mid-project break
End-of-day recovery
These small movements add up, supporting not just your creative flow, but your overall comfort and mobility, too.
And about that crick in the neck? We’ll explore how thumb tension can connect to neck discomfort and what you can do for relief in the next blog post.
Ready to support your creative body?
Your creativity deserves a supported body. By giving your thumbs and hands a few minutes of care, you’re building the foundation for more comfortable and more joyful making.
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I only recommend products I personally use and trust to support your creativity and mobility. Your support helps me continue creating free resources to keep your body moving well while you create what you love. Thank you! 🧡
