The ULTIMATE Guide to Preventing PAIN from CROCHETING
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 มิ.ย. 2024
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In this video, we will explore the 12 essential tips for preventing pain from crocheting, so you can enjoy this beloved hobby without any discomfort!
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I’m an occupational therapist, also a knitter and a crocheter. It is important to start by looking at your posture while sitting. Everything starts at your core…your pelvis and your shoulder girdle. Good positioning is key to arm and hand function, and respiration. We knitters and crocheters tend to look down a lot while we’re doing our craft, not much different than looking down at our cell phones all the time. I actually believe that cell phone use has contributed to some of these issues that we have,so I have become more conscious of my overall posture, how I am sitting, the positioning of my pelvis (am I slumped?), the surface that I’m sitting on, and how I am holding my craft in front of me and positioning my neck at neutral. So much to think about! Thank you so much for this excellent video.
We would love a suggestion of a video to watch to warm up for crochet!
Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!! 🧶🧶🧶
Maybe put a pillow(s) under elbows for support so there’s less looking down?
You know, it's funny how our grandmothers and great-grandmothers and great-great-grandmothers managed to knit and sew and mend clothing for hours on end, looking down at their work for long periods, and they seemed to get along just fine. It was part of everyday life, making clothes by hand. Yet nowadays everybody loves to blame cellphones for "neck problems," etc. Hmm.
@@kj3d812 good point, but they also did many other things. I read from a reputable source that on average adults can be on their cell phones for 6 hours a day. There is no way on earth our grandmothers and great grandmothers did handiwork six hours a day because they had other things to do as well! Also, the body mechanics involved in using a cell phone are much different than using both of your hands to engage in a craft activity. It is just not biomechanically the same thing
I am 10 years old. I started crocheting when i was 8 and. I watch your videos a lot and I have made scarfs, hats and LOTS of amigurumi. I also learned how to knit a short while ago . Your videos are very inspiring. Thank you for sharing your crochet journey .
You are very talented! Keep the good work going!
Awww! Thank you so much! I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos!! ❤️
Aww that's so cute n sweet. Good for you!
You are so well-spoken. You must have a fantastic mother.
Great advice! i dont think enough people realize that pain is something you need to pay attention too.
I didn't for a long time!! 🧶🧶🧶
1:01 I used to not get any pain from crochet or sewing etc but a few years back I hurt my wrists and honestly it’s never been the same. No matter what pacing yourself and not overdoing it will ALWAYS be the best thing ❤
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I got a really bad tendinitis on my wrist from crocheting and made a huge impact in my life, to the point that I couldn't move my hand for an entire day because of the pain. It lasted for years and I couldn't crochet at all. Right now my wrist is fine so I picked up the craft again but I take 5-10 min breaks while i crochet to avoid that from happening again. Thanks for the video!
Thank you so much for sharing your struggles! I think it's important for beginners to realize that this can happen! ❤️
Years post mastectomy - resulting in frozen shoulder -side where lymph nodes removed has been a chronic issue - arm numbness, shoulder/neck pain so I must force myself to stop. There are some great videos teaching gentle stretching. I did find a lap table with attached pillow that elevated my arms and helped so much bringing my work up higher and I wasn't bending my neck so much! I too use a compression glove & it works for me. You have shared some fantastic advice - thank you so much. I really enjoy your channel 😊. This Memorial Day thinking of all our Military & First Responders that have made the ultimate sacrifice for us...😔🙏🏻
Thank you so much for sharing the struggles you've worked through to be able to continue crocheting. Happy Memorial Day! 🇺🇸
I actually think of my crochet, knit, cross-stitch, etc. time as ‘my time’ to enjoy and relax. So, I never hurry through my work. I don’t speed through my projects anymore. If you have a deadline, try to start it way ahead of time so you don’t have to rush. There’s enough things in life that do stress you out. Something that you enjoy doing, should be calming. 😊
That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I have arthritis in my fingers and yes they do hurt after I crocheted for awhile. I can only crochet for a little bit. I love to crochet... I do enjoy listening to you. Happy crocheting
Thanks so much for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
It's so unfortunate that you deal with these pain issues and I'm sorry you have been experiencing it, but thank you for using those experiences to help others. I get stiffness in my hands when I crochet too much, so I switch to using my sewing machine which causes me no hand stress.
Thank you so much! It could be worse so I'm thankful for that!! It's great to have something to switch to. ❤️❤️❤️
My goodness this helped me so much! I was afraid the only remedy was to stop crocheting. Thank you!
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Yes! Upper back. So, i recline a little in my chair and prop my work in my lap. Helps my posture tremendously!
That's wonderful! Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
I sit in a recliner as well Vanessa, I find reclining just a bit with two throw pillows under my knees supports my bad back and helps keep my posture aligned as well. It’s a constant battle to keep those elbows down tho, sigh. 🤨
@@judipierry549 me too! Girl, we smart!
What helps me is switching regularly between crochet and knitting, they have different movements. Also making sure never to twist the hook but keep it straight when making stitches. And not having any fingers sticking out to hold the yarn but keeping all fingers right very close to your work.
Thank you for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
@AmberMorris-xe6bn, I agree with your comment about "not having any fingers sticking out to hold the yarn." When my grandmother taught me to crochet when I was 7, she taught me to hold the working yarn with an over-under hold: over the index finger, under the middle finger, over the ring finger, and under the pinky finger. I was away from crochet for a while and when I came back to it recently, suddenly I'm seeing everybody doing this wrap-around-the-pinky-twice-and-up-over-the-index-finger, where they're holding the index finger extended (no offense, Elise!). To me that looks very un-ergonomic and stressful to the hand. The method my grandmother taught me is very dynamic, meaning that the fingers open and close with ease, neither extended nor clenched but moving freely between the two. I'm not saying the "newer" method is wrong -- each of us has to find what's most comfortable -- but when we hold muscles and tendons in one position, it can become stressful, so the index-extended method does not work for me. As someone who has had tendinitis in my left hand years ago, I'm very conscious of anything that might overly stress my hand, and so far my grandmother's method is not stressful to my hand at all. 😊
I’m 20 and got diagnosed with RA and compression gloves have been a lifesaver. I wear them more than just crocheting too. Also, you can use a tennis ball to put on your crochet hook to use as a makeshift ergonomic hook
Thank you for sharing! Someone just sent me a video of using the tennis ball!! 🎾🎾🎾
I'm currently dealing with wrist pain. I'm taking a couple days off...so...I'm watching crochet videos and shopping.
Sounds like a good plan! 🧶🧶🧶
Chronic tendinitis sufferer. I’ve picked up crochet again after a long several years break. A great thing that has helped along with grip on the hook is rolling the handle between my fingers vs maintaining the grip and using my wrist. I’d rather my fingers do the work than overwork my wrist.
Thank you for sharing this. I will definitely try this!! 🧶🧶🧶
We all need to be reminded about these issues once in a while. For me, it's posture. Im trying to improve, but at age 78, some habits are hard to break. Good lighting helps to relieve not only eye strain, but because one can see better, other muscles in back and neck are more relaxed. Thanks so much for all of these helps. Good luck with your PT. Blessings!!
Thanks so much, Jim! I'm glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Love this advice, thanks so much. How lovely to have your daughter teach you piano!! love,hugs,prayers
It's been so wonderful to take lessons as an adult from her!! 🎹🧶❤️
I catch myself getting more tense when I’m on a deadline for a crochet project. Thanks to your previous video, I’m able to force myself to relax and take a break, then come back to the project. I appreciate this video and pray that you get the help and healing you need!
Thank you so much!! I'm glad you're able to relax!! 🧶🧶🧶
Hello! I wanted to say thank you for this video. I'm a beginner and started to crochet in the February and God I was so obsessed with this new hobby that ended up with callouses and finger pain and it's so hard to convince myself to take even a one day break because I want to grow and learn and this is FRUSTRATING. Thank you for the usuful tips and also for helping me realise that I'm not alone in this ❤
You are definitely not alone. Remember that it's a marathon, because if you sprint you could end up with an injury that will take you out for much longer than a couple of days! ❤
I just recently started crocheting (and Elise has quickly become my number one favourite crochet TH-cam channel!) and I am experiencing the same thing. I started with the Woobles and now I am into bigger projects and I want to keep going and getting more done and learning more and moving onto shawls and bigger Amigurumi! But agghhh both my hands hurt so much tonight from some many non-stop crochet hours! I also use it a lot when I am very depressed and/or anxious which both are currently very bad/heavy. Tonight I had to take a long break (like stop at 3pm earlier today) and tonight I begged my husband to massage my hands. 😂 As someone who has chronic pain, two failed back surgeries, three nerve pain conditions, neck pain, migraines, and tenosynovitis, I know a lot about pain management but it seems I just haven’t applied my knowledge to my crochet!
Something that has helped me a lot is learning how to crochet without looking so I don't have to look down all the time
Oh wow!!! I would love to learn how to do that!! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks so much for the advice 😁(on my way to the freezer) 👍
You're so welcome! 🥶
So I learned to knit first and then crochet so I've always held the hook "wrong" (not like a pencil). I found an ergonomic hook at a yarn convention where I had never seen them before and it made such a difference. I'm glad they're more affordable now.
Yes, a ergonomic crochet hook is great to have! 🧶🧶🧶
I luv playing JJ! Congrats on the new sponsor! How sweet that you can work with your daughter! Great advice. Another fantastic video!
It really is a fun game!! And I'm enjoying learning piano so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Such a needed video! I have arthritis in my non-hook thumb that hurts constantly and discourages me to even start a project. It didn’t really hurt u til I re-started crocheting a couple of years ago.
Oh I'm so sorry. That does sound painful! 🧶🧶🧶
@@EliseRoseCrochet it often is! I’m doing hand therapy and meds soon. Thanks!
Thanks💝 💯
You're welcome 😊
This is a timely video for me , as I am dealing within a couple of these things. I’m using the things you mentioned and I’ve also limited my crochet time 😱 I’m doing jigsaw puzzles to fill in and hopefully I’ll be able to increase my time soon. I’m glad you will be getting PT and hope for you a speedy recovery. Happy Memorial Day….. Karen from Greenleaf Idaho😊❤
Thank you so much, Karen! I'm so sorry that you're dealing with your own issues. I admire people who can do jigsaw puzzles!!! 🧩🧩🧩
Once you starting explaining, it all made perfect sense. I would have never thought to stretch or warm up my muscles. And then to cool down. Mind blown! Thank you for sharing.
You're so welcome!! 🧶🧶🧶
Pain is a way of life for some of us. But it will not stop us from doing what we love. I hope therapy helps your shoulder. 😊
Thank you for sharing! ❤️❤️❤️
Hi Elise!
Great video!
I struggle with my posture and crocheting for way too long, trying to finish projects to meet a deadline.
Not good!😢
But I have been really disciplined lately, forcing myself to take day-long breaks! Your videos in this have really helped me see the value in that!
Thanks, Elise!
Have a wonderful weekend!
I'm so glad you're taking breaks!! 🧶🧶🧶
Great info thanks
You're welcome!! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise. I recently watched a TH-cam video ( I can’t remember who) she had said that she was using exclusively Furls Odyssey hooks and that after using the hooks for 4-6 weeks that she developed a great deal of pain in her hands.. I wanted to share this with you. I know that that is the crochet hook that you use. ( I’m not a Doctor) Just a fellow crochet lover. Maybe you should try a different kind of hook, or switch back and forth. I also have hand troubles from crocheting for extremely long periods of time. I love your TH-cam channel. IDK if changing your crochet hook will help you, but you never know. Have a great day
Thanks so much for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Omg Yay I’m excited to play June’s journey!
It's a really fun distraction from crochet! 🔎
Elise, I can't thank you enough for this. As a woman in my early 30s who has recently been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, pain has become part of my daily life. I've just been getting into crochet, and it's so hard for me to sit and crochet for more than a few minutes at a time some days when I'm having a fibromyalgia flare-up. These tips will really help me. Thank you again! ❤
I'm so glad you found them helpful! I'm so sorry for your pain! ❤️❤️❤️
I went through a long illness and had to have physical therapy to get my strength back. The one thing I learned is you really shouldn't sit and do anything for a long time. I space out my housework and chores throughout the day with some crochet in breaks. I don't do anything for more than an hour and then switch. I also do other crafts such as quilting, collage, painting and embroidery and switch off with them too. I cringe when I see a young TH-camr post a crochet for 24 hours video.
Thank you for sharing how you're switching things up. I'm so glad you're on the mend! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for the tips!
You're so welcome! ❤️❤️❤️
I have severe arthritis and have a RSI in my wrist and forearm. Part of it is from the arthritis (also have Carpal tunnel). It’s difficult because I can’t sit leaning back because I have spine arthritis, fibromyalgia, and plain old chronic back pain. I can’t sit to the right because my hip arthritis is worse on that side. So I lean (propped up with pillows) on the right side. I have many health problems and only get out to go to the Dr.’s. I alternate projects throughput the day, switch hooks, wear a splint and ice my RSI while waiting for an EMG (nerve conduction test). I’m moving soon and am planning to get a recliner. That will help my posture, etc. I will probably get a steroid injection in my wrist. I find smaller hooks and lighter weight yarns aggravate my problems. I can use a 4mm and dk yarn for an hour or so.
Bless your heart. I'm so glad that you've found a way to keep crocheting! And I hope you get your recliner!! ❤️❤️❤️
Great advice!!! Thank you!!
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
مرحبا اليس اتابعك من مصر تعجبني فيديوهاتك كثيرا بالرغم من النمط الاستهلاكي الذي يغلب عليها وانا لااتعلم منك غرز جديده مثل مدرباتنا. المصريات لكني اشكرك علي التنوع الثقافي في فيديوهاتك واتمني قراءه روايه اوكتاب عن علاقه النساء بالكروشيه من بدايه اختراع هذه الابره الساحره واكتشاف ملايين الأنماط من تلك الأعمال الفنية التي تبدعها النساء حول العالم اتمني ان اكتبه إذا لم يكن موجودا اليك فكرتي عزيزتي اسفه للاطاله❤😂
Thank you so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Also DON’T worry about how fast you must go!!
Slow and relaxed helps longevity.
During breaks, I watch TH-cam videos about different things.
You don’t need to always be doing something with your hands all the time. Remember, you’re supposed to be resting your body during the break.
Thanks for the tips! ❤️
Also don’t sleep with your wrists bent.
I was a court reporter for over 25 years and we reporters are super careful about our hands and neck, shoulders, etc.
As always, you really do address issues and concerns of all of us crocheters and knitters. Thank you so much. I always feel like I"m not alone when I watch your videos. Thank you for all the great advice on this video. I have been dealing with one issue after another since I've started crocheting. First, I had the tendonitis in my elbow, now the pain at the base of my thumb and wrist/hands. Taking a break has helped. I will heed some of your advice and hopefully, they will help me with my issues. Thanks again!
I'm so glad it helps you to feel less alone! I too struggle with one issue after another. It can be discouraging! 🧶🧶🧶
Great advise! Very thorough.
Thanks so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Sharing this is so important. I've been really trying to improve on a few things and it's totally your doing 🙂 you made me realize that i need to work on my posture and i now take frequent breaks. What i haven't been doing is stretching before and after and i am now committed to incorporating that in my crochet routine as well. Thank you so much for helping us stay pain free so we can continue to do the things that bring us joy. I hope all goes well with your shoulder and have a wonderful weekend.
Thank you so much, Sarah! I'm glad you're taking care of yourself! 🧶🧶🧶
Wow! Thanks for all this wonderful information. I never thought of doing warmups before crocheting. I figure skated when I was in my late teens and early twenties and I would never step out on the ice until after I had warmed up. Thanks for reminding me about how important that is, even when you are crocheting.
I'm glad it was helpful! ⛸️⛸️⛸️
This is so informative and helpful! Thanks!
Glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Thankyou for this informative video.
You have helped me realize things I am doing wrong and ways to help my pain.
Love your channel and look forward to watching more soon
Samantha 🥰
You are so welcome! ❤️❤️❤️
Crochet has been my lifeline since becoming ill. After the fabulous menopause started(note sarcasm), I became pretty much bed-bound.
I began to notice an increase in pain after crocheting & hated the fact that taking breaks from crochet resolved the pain.
I have since been diagnosed w/ Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome & A LOT of things make sense now - including "crochet pain."
Like you, I discovered the need for & relief in heat & cold, splints & braces, & other tips & tricks that allow me to continue my craft.
Great video, thank you! 😊
I'm so glad that you were finally able to figure out what the problem was! Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks so much for sharing! hope your shoulder gets better soon! Have a great weekend! ❤😘😊
Thank you so much! The cortisone shot definitely helped! 🧶🧶🧶
just got a hip replacement and am doing physical therapy on Shoulder....I didn't learn to crochet until my mobility got bad... After the first 3 years of crochet my neck started giving me neuropathy in hands and feet....I got 5 cervical fusions and its Been 9 years. total now . I really wish I had learned when I was younger..
I hate to take days off Crocheting, but sometimes its better than having to frog rows of work because pain or Brain Fog...
I love your videos - I crochet almost everyday and take yarn everywhere I go. Oh - Im gonna be 64 in a couple months - yarn has given me so much joy - ♡ Keep sharing eager to learn new things -- Namaste
Bless your heart! You've been through a lot! I'm so glad crochet brings you joy! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you so much for this VERY much needed, and seldom talked about subject, Elise! I found out the hard way that I needed to loosen my tension also. I finds that when I get going and am in a rhythm I start crocheting faster and thus my stitches get tighter and I can feel my shoulders raising and getting tighter. LoL! Thank you for sharing your journey with us and giving us pointers on how to try and avoid these common injuries.
You're welcome! So many of us deal with repetitive motion injuries from crochet and we all can help each other! 🧶🧶🧶
These are great tips. Thank you
You're so welcome! ❤
This was an informative video. Thanks very much!!
You're so welcome! Thank you! ❤️
I suffer from bursitis with impediment in my left shoulder..man, the pain when I move my left arm the wrong way..exscrewciating...funny thing though, it does not pain me while I'm crocheting, thankfully...my upper arm remains in the same possy, not moving extensively, but if I reach for something to my left, OUCH..!!having taken some falls in the last few months, falls where I automatically reach my arms out to save my face/head from hitting the ground, has aggravated it to a point where I can no longer lay on my left side without causing pain in that area..I'm just glad it hasn't stopped me crocheting..mind you, the ache below my elbow is not doing me any favours..
Ouch!!! I'm glad you're at least able to crochet!! 🧶🧶🧶
Very new to your channel and I’ve been kind of binge watching a lot of your videos. Thank you for all of the great tips. I have carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis and I am guilty of crocheting for long stretches without taking breaks although these conditions have impacted that. I was pleasantly surprised when you mentioned June’s Journey because that’s one of my favorite games and I do stop while I’m crocheting to play a couple rounds of June or another game because my hands and wrist get fatigued quickly. What I don’t do is get up and move around because I have serious back problems. I definitely need to do that more often. 🤗
I'm so glad you're enjoying the channel! And we all definitely need those reminders to take care of ourselves! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for such great tips!☺️🧶
You are so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
I have recently taken up crocheting and love it so so much. I am using it as a therapy for my PTSD but I too am having pain and playing with different posture, hand exercises, compression gloves, splints, hooks etc because I intend to continue for my Mental health but I do not want long term pain too. Fantastic video ! 💗🙏😊 Thank u.
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
With inflammatory arthritis and a previously torn rotator cuff, I struggle with constant pain in my hands/wrists, and shoulders. I get trigger point injections every 3 months and I go to physical therapy weekly and it’s been the biggest help. I have a collection of therapy hand putty that helps tremendously, and I use compression gloves and shoulder ice packs and have been trying to be better at giving myself breaks and not getting lost in my projects 😅
Thank you so much for sharing how you manage having a chronic condition while crocheting! 🧶🧶🧶
Lol: I LOVE @June'sJourney !
Another of my favorite alternate activities are puzzles like Hanjie (called lots of different things in the US but I found them when I lived in the UK so that's what I call them).
Thanks for the great video!
Thank you for sharing! ❤️
A hack that I saw on tiktok recently to make your own ergonomic Crochethook is to just "stab" it through a cheap beautyblender. As someone who only uses steel hooks because I am allergic to the rubber in a lot of hooks (e.g. addi) this has saved my life (or at least my wrist).
That's an interesting hack!! Thanks so much for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
Great video Elise, I hope your pain is eased soon, so much of it eminates from my upper back and physio helps. Thankyou for the words, "You dont have to crochet everyday"! Wow, just hearing that come from fellow crafter woke me up, it sounds so silly when I have been telling myself I have to take a break and so has my husband, but its my only stress relief in a very very stressful time in my life, but those words were very needed in my present condition and sunk right in. When you said that I felt a rush of relief come over me, thankyou, and I have to give praise to Jesus too because again I have been praying much. I hear over and over on knitting podcasts that they cant go a day without knitting and that makes me feel normal but perhaps we should all be saying I can go a day with out knitting, its a God given help to relieve the afflicted and should never be abused but enjoyed in moderation like all things. Now to find something else to do while Im sitting.
I'm so glad that was helpful! It really is not only ok to take breaks, but good for us! Moderation in all things! ❤️
Elise! Inspiring Video! I feel so blessed. I have been Knitting and Directly Carving Stone for 50 years and have never experienced any pain!!! This year I also started crocheting every day. All the information you shared makes me so grateful for having a life without pain as I enjoy all the arts and crafts that I dedicate my life to and have a passion for!!!
Wow!! You are indeed a very lucky lady, Michele! Thank you for sharing! You're such an inspiration!! ❤️❤️❤️
Hi Elise! Great video with much need information. I went to bed last night with my best friend, my ice pack!! I always wake up with fresh hands. Have a great weekend. 😃
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
This is so helpful! I used to draw on paper a lot in school when I was younger, and not paying attention to the pain in my body made it so i couldn't hold a pencil for days at a time. Now that I'm picking up a different craft with my hands, crocheting, as an adult I'm realizing how valuable our precious hands can be! (For reference I'm a little older than 19, but I've been on-off crocheting since I was around 12, fully getting back into it at 17)
Switching to the pencil grip also slowed me down a lot, which really helped with wrist pain and getting the gears in my head turning trying to find a rhythm while making amigurumi
I've also been trying to incorporate ice into my crafting life, which has been really helpful as well! Not only is it heating up in the summer, so the extra cooling off is welcome, but I'm seeing with my little "ice breaks" in between sessions I'm able to crochet for longer before needing to put that hook down!
Thanks for sharing!! Our hands are so important! 🧶🧶🧶
I've switched up my crafting by trying out embroidery. I wanted to learn to embroider like a lot of the beautiful Little Cotton Rabbit patterns I see. Thanks for your tips!
That's wonderful! 🧵🪡
Same here, Elise. I recently bought a mandolin to give myself a different hobby I could try when I need to take a break from knitting and crochet. However, I rarely go a day without knitting, and deal with some discomfort on a regular basis. Also I discovered that too much mandolin practice causes carpal tunnel problems too. I know I need to get back into yoga. But thanks for the video and the encouragement. Your little wolf is so cute!!
Thanks so much for sharing! And learning to play the mandolin sounds amazing! 🎶
I already have a hard time with keeping my posture while crocheting and this video really helped. I started trying to fix my posture and do the exercises you recommended.
I'm so glad you found it helpful!! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you so much! Really great advice in this video. I’m going to try switching up my crochet grip style.
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Bonjour Elise, merci beaucoup for the video, very informative. Have a wonderful day. Christine 🇨🇦
Thank you so much!! Je t'en prie! ❤️
Brilliant talk thank you i will take your advice 😊
❤️
Such a helpful video Elise, thanks so much. I have chronic pain all over before I even touch a crochet hook - I find Clover Amour hooks make it possible for me to crochet for hours as long as I take frequent breaks. I use little finger splints on my index finger when needed and I have an assortment of wrist and hand splints too. Distraction therapy is the best thing for pain and June's Journey is wonderful for that - I have been playing for over four years now!
Wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing! I'm so glad crocheting helps with your chronic pain! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise, I started learning Dutch. Plus I play a game called cafeland so no problems with alternative things to busy myself.
Wow!! Dutch sounds like fun!! ❤️
@@EliseRoseCrochet I started learning because I found a singer in the Netherlands named Bouke Scholten. He does write and sings his own songs in English and Dutch, but does a lot of tributes of Elvis Presley. His group is called Bouke and the Elvismatters band. He won the Battle of the Bands contest in Like March and the first place came with a night at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam. The tickets sold out within one night so they added 2 more nights and all those sold out within a few days. The Ziggo Dome holds 117,000 people. He's also sold out 60 tour dates for the next year. So that's why I'm learning Dutch, so I can understand when he does interviews and talks during his concerts. He does speak English but he kinda limits it.
Sorry for the long post..
Thank you so much for this video. I experience a lot of pain in my hands and wrists, so much that I can barely crochet anymore. But I hope with some of these tips it will be a bit better. They are very practical tips, for instance I never thought about warming up before crocheting!
So again, thank you!
You're so welcome. I hope it helps! ❤️
I'm 12 started 10-11 I found out about you yesterday and I'm subscribed thank you I'm currently crocheting a gaint granny square blacked and my hands hurt so I will try this😃
Yes! Take care of yourself so that you can crochet for many years! ❤
Hello , i was searching for such video. Actully i wanted to talk to such crocheter who dose crochet for long time. I am also having pain in fingers and arms and elbow but dont want to stop crocheting. Thanks for such informative video. I had started that changing hook hack. This is so useful and doing yoga is best.
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
I love your advice on hand pain. I crocheting when I was Yong age. Also you saved my life. With your tips and advice
Happy to help! 🧶🧶🧶
@@EliseRoseCrochet anytime
This is very helpful! I feel a little silly, being an athletic person I never considered stretching before hand only in the middle or after. My other busy hand craft is sewing. I have both a machine and a few hand projects. My hand projects are more repairs/very beginner embroidery.
I really had never thought of a lot of these things until I had a repetitive motion injury. Now I think about them a lot. 🧶🧶🧶
I have scoliosis and play tennis so I definitely feel the pain!
Thank you for sharing! 🎾🎾🎾
Great tips, Elise! I agree with you and other commenters about the importance of maintaining good posture. I do embroidery and other crafts propped up in bed, and the simplest and easiest way I've found to improve my posture is to incorporate the use of a lamp with a magnifying lens.
After just 45 minutes of stitching, I'd experience pain in my lower back. By paying attention to my posture, I noticed that I was hunching forward with my neck craned at an angle, squinting at my hoop. I've always had poor eyesight, which is only getting worse with age, and I was sure that this was what was causing my poor posture and the resulting backache. Dollar store reading glasses weren't cutting it, so I sought out alternatives.
I bought two magnifying lamp units, one that hangs on my neck and one that clips to my lapdesk. I swap between the two depending on what craft I'm engaged in, and the use of them has improved my posture and totally eliminated my back pain. It was an amazingly simple solution, one that not only prevents pain, but greatly adds to my enjoyment of crafting because I can see so much more detail now. Absolute game-changer!
Thank you so much for sharing!! Sounds like you found an amazing solution! 🧶
Very interesting and informative. I’m dealing with overuse pain right now. So annoying because all I want to do is crochet. I have decided to put stuff away for 5 days and resist the urge to pick it up. Hopefully it will work itself out. My husband said he didn’t realize that crochet was such a contact sport. 😂
Lol! It definitely is! Hope you feel better soon! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for the wrist exercise recommendations. I never warm up before crocheting, but I warmed up before doing a cartwheel the other week. And why wouldn't I warm up my wrists? I should and never thought about it. LOL I sit at a table and keep my work on the table and my elbows in and posture is straight, crossing legs at the ankles only or on the lip of the table base (as my footstool). I remind myself to push my shoulders down from a ballerina I used to watch. It really works the pectoral muscles as well and stops me from turtling. This was a wonderful informative video. Thank you. btw, you look vibrant in this video. =)
Thank you so much! Warming up before crocheting is new to me too! 🧶🧶🧶
While you were listing all your pains and troubles, here on my side of the screen I was yelling (in my head) for you to change your grip and for ice and heat interchangeably. I crochet sitting on my recliner feet up and back a little reclined but with a narrow rectangular decorative pillow right behind my waist. Also my arms are not resting on the sides of the recliner they are by my side. Also I force myself to not crochet every day although I’d love to. I’m not a fast crocheter because I have not been doing it for a long time, but I agree that the fast repetitive motions and a tight tension are the worst. I found that after making my first amigurumi while being conscious of keeping my tension tight I was tense all over, even my jaw. So I Started alternating projects. But I know for you it’s a business and you have to keep putting them out. At night after crocheting, I take 1/2 gummy, Delta 8, (no THC in these) I can feel my tension and my muscles relaxing. Pm me if you want for the brand I use as not all are good.
Thanks so much for sharing what works for you! 🧶🧶🧶
I pull out a length of yarn and when I get to the end of the yarn I stop for a while and do something else then go back to crochet I find this helps me.
Ooh! I like that idea!!! Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
@@EliseRoseCrochet done this ever since I learnt to crochet my gran did the same.
I love this. I knit, I crochet,sew,quilt etc and sometimes I just have to stop some days. I play games on my phone, swim ( in the summer ) walk etc. it’s hard because I have to have something to do with my hands. I have fibromyalgia, severe osteoarthritis & a severe back injury and sometimes all I can do is rest and I crochet or knit. I’ve tried to start reading again as it is a good hand break. I’ve been crocheting/knitting since I was 8 and I’m 63 now and I find it’s just part of me & hard not to do. 😊
Thank you so much for sharing!! I'm so sorry for your chronic pain but it sounds like you are very active despite it all! 🧶🧶🧶
I try. I’m hoping it keeps me limber 😊
Furls hooks were a game changer for me
They are fantastic hooks! ❤️❤️❤️
I just had surgery yesterday from Carpal Tunnel and a tendinitis repair. I assume from crocheting but it will still be my favorite hobby.
Big HUGS.
Oh boy!! I'm so sorry, I hope you feel better soon!! 🧶🧶🧶
Hey Elise ❤️. I live with chronic pain . I love crocheting sm but I'm always in pain but you give good tips ❤
I'm sorry you have chronic pain. But I'm glad you are still able to crochet! 🧶🧶🧶
@LePetitSaint Crochet definitely I do have to limit how much I crochet during the day especially when I'm working with lace weight yarn
1:40 I think I already saw this video but forgot about it. I’ve def tried to incorporate some of your tips before and things like how your shoulders are positioned def makes a difference and I never knew before
Lowering my shoulders is something that I have to remind myself of all the time! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise
Thank you very much for sharing this wonderful video.
I hope you get well soon and the PT sessions go well and help you recover.
Have fun with your daughter teaching you piano 🎹 I love learning piano too.
I agree it is sometimes hard to put the hook down and rest when on a project deadline, whether it’s crochet or another crafty project.
Take care and stay safe and well. God’s blessings 🙏🏽💗🧶😻🦋
Thank you so much!! I haven't started PT yet but I'm looking forward to it!! And I am so enjoying my piano lessons!! 🎹
@@EliseRoseCrochet All the best! Have fun learning 🎹
Thanks for all of the info! I have wrist pain and shoulder pain. I have been dealing with shoulder pain for more than six years! I have done PT which made it somewhat better, but as soon as I stop the pain returns. It doesn't stop me from crocheting lol
Thanks for sharing! I'm hoping PT will fix my shoulder issues!! ❤️❤️❤️
Hi elise and right now I am working on my cottage core mosaic blanket and granny squares blanket and butterfly mosaic blanket and I love your channel and your videos and if you keep making videos I will keep watching them and what is your favorite crochet project to work on right now and favorite types of yarn to used when crocheting and keep up the great work on your TH-cam channel and keep up the great work on your crochet projects
Thank you! I love making amigurumi! 🧶🧶🧶
This is definitely an issue for me, I've learned standing while designing crochet patterns helps me most but sitting on the couch while crocheting causes too much back pain. I crochet alot bending over the table for tutorials so standing the other half of the time helps me most. ❤😊 love your channel Elise thanks for the helpful video 😊
Thanks for sharing what works best for you!! 🧶🧶🧶
@@EliseRoseCrochet Sure your welcome I think all your suggestions were alot better than mine 😊
I’m disabled with a lot of arm weakness and dexterity and hand pain issues and didn’t think I could crochet when I tried to teach myself early into my health issues but I’ve become so used to making adaptions and learning how to make things work for me. I’m totally with you on trying different hooks and always recommend that to folks. For me I find weight of the hook is a big issue. So resin is ideal since it’s so, so light. I want to try some of the resin hooks from Furls but know the Odyssey would not be a good fit for me at all. I also really like my hooks small but I have teeny tiny hands. And I like handles that are more grippy because I’m prone to dropping things in general so Boye does a more grippy ergonomic and my all time favorite hook is this kind of Clover Amour copycat from Hobby Lobby (they don’t really name these!) but the handle is grippy and multicolored and the hook itself is made of resin rather like the larger sizes of the Amours. And they are the shortest hooks I own. Only bummer is they don’t seem to make them smaller than a 5mm but oh my gosh, I love those hooks and have so much less pain, can work faster and longer.
I was interested in your video especially because where I struggle so much is when making amigurumi. I don’t think smaller hooks are necessarily my answer since I even work in thread and very fine yarns but don’t suffer the same type of pain as I do with amigurumi. So I’m still working on that. I do think I work overly tight and often have to really force myself to relax. I’ll work so tight I end up causing the holes I’m trying to avoid!
My favorite tip is when using compression gloves or a brace to also use some form of pain relieving cream. I’ve got prescription stuff, will use icy hot in a pinch and my ultimate favorite is a high dose topical I pick up from the local dispensary. So not an option everywhere though my go to is fifty/ fifty with high amounts of CBD so might be worthwhile for anyone else looking for options who may not otherwise have access to try a CBD topical for pain. The gloves and/ or wrist braces over the creams seems to amplify the effects of both and work so well together I find.
I also recently realized I crochet in my own unique way where I maneuver the yarn with my left hand a lot so I’m not doing major twists of my wrists/ elbows (this may actually be my problem with amigurumi. I don’t so much do this on single crochets) and something about using both hands more equally also seems very beneficial and let’s me work longer without pain. Saw a great discussion on the crochet sub on Reddit about this recently when someone with cerebral palsy posted a video of how she works with limited mobility in her right hand and a number of folks with various disabilities were talking about working this way. So putting that out there.
I could go on but don’t want to leave a whole novel. 😂 I’ve had to learn so much about adapting things because arm disabilities are especially difficult to navigate (all the more reasons for folks to take care of themselves and take preventative measures now if they do not have major issues!) and it’s not always the easiest to know how to interpret pain when chronic pain and illness are my normal but gives me a great excuse to collect hooks. And take breaks to go wander yarn aisles!
Thank you so much for sharing what works for you. I'm so sorry for what deal with every day, but I appreciate your willingness to share! ❤️❤️❤️
I have serious medical issues with neck/shoulder/arm/wrist/hands. Self-fusing vertebrae, calcified cartilage and a significant myopathic disorder.
I really shouldn't be able to crochet or knitting at all. But it's so good for me! I feel artistic, productive and useful. I limit my time, take breaks and listen to what my body is telling me. I pay big attention to my posture, especially a good core position paying particular attention to my neck. I keep my elbows close to my waist, and do my tai chi exercises for hands, arms & neck. I alternate my projects between knitting, crochet and Tunisian crochet. I try some new technique each time to extend my skills and exercise my brain. All of this really pays off!
Love your tip re using muscle relief cream under your compression gloves. Brilliant!
I am not sure this is allowed but about 8 years ago I struggled with arthritis in the joints of my fingers (among other places). We assumed there was an element of genetics involved as the joints of my grandmother’s fingers were the size of bird eggs. I had visits to a well-known reumatologist to rule out RA but nothing helped.
Then in a medical newsletter my 0:15 doctor came upon an off label use of an antidepressant called Duloxetine. It changed my life. I took it for several years. No more swollen/painful joints. I don’t remember why I stopped…periodically get sick of so many pills and I had to take 3 30 mg capsules daily. Plus my doc retired and have had 2 others since.
If you are in great pain, it’s worth asking your doctor.
My trifocals make that not-looking-down issue much easier. I try to keep myself conscious of that and needing to keep my back straight at all times. I spent way too many years working at drawing tables not to know all that. These days I work diligently at strengthening my back, legs, and arms to keep all those pitfalls in check.
So, my biggest challenges are actually old injuries, one being an old tennis injury in my shoulder and the other from a nasty sprain in the base of left thumb from volleyball. Keeping my hand warm with a fingerless glove seems to actually help a lot. Still working to resolve the shoulder problem, which, luckily does not impeded my type and video game playing (pc, not console), but still hurts. I will work it out.
Overall, at the age of 70, I think I am doing well, so I feel lucky.
That's wonderful!! Thank you for sharing!! ❤️
Hi Elise! As always, great videos. I just want to add in something that most people aren't aware of or don't know much about. I use a lot of red light therapy with infrared devices to help with any type of pain. Because they are becoming more mainstream, the prices are really quite reasonable for home use. I also had purchased a hand and wrist massager that works fabulously and have shared with my knitting and crochet groups. I am not sure if I can list the website where I purchase my devices but if you are interested let me know and I can email it to you. But there is plenty of information to look into on the uses of red light therapy with infrared. Have a blessed day!
Oh that's super interesting!! I've never heard of that before!! ❤️
For making stuffies I use waistcoat stitch or fake knit stitch. It really makes them tight.
Thanks so much for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I've found that I have to take breaks from crocheting. Some of the things that I do between crocheting is- cooking, once a month I even make homemade yogurt, I also watch youtube videos. I don't know how to kit, I've tried loom knitting. I do feel guilty for not working on my amigurumi project though. I can't afford more crochet hook, the oe I use comes in a set, it is ergonomic. I do want to put fancy polymer clay designs on my susan bates hooks that I used before getting the crochet set I now use. I like using a 2.5 mm hook size. I've never tried yoga, I do try to stretch my back, neck, & arms though. I do not have splints, braces or any other support items, I think they might restrict my movements. I hold my hook like a knife as well, I don't mentally know how crochet using my pencil grip, it is slightly different than a non artist pencil grip- see my profile pic. Ice & heat good idea.
Thanks so much for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
Great video! I'm going to try the compression gloves. I've just recently begun to have pain in my knuckles. We'll see how it goes. Thanks!
I hope they help! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise, what an informative video today! I really enjoyed it, and your advice is spot on. I too have experienced the different types of pain you have described over the years. I do many of the things you suggested. I find the hand warm ups especially helpful. My little niece left one of her squishy toys over at the house, and I discovered it is just the right level of softness to squeeze and warm up my hand before I begin my crochet or knitting. I found a tennis ball a little too hard and painful for my arthritis, but this soft toy is just right for getting the joints warmed up and ready to go. I also have made some small rice bags that I can put in the microwave. I will often hold them before I begin if I am in more than the usual amount of pain.
They give off a nice moist heat. (A tip: I make mine with long tube socks, fill them with rice and 2 or 3 drops of lavender or peppermint oil. Then I tie the sock in a tight knot at the end, and put in microwave for 2.5 minutes. You can also use them on your neck.)
I also really loved your suggestion about having more than one project going so that you can give your hands a rest and use different muscles. I always have one crochet project and a knitting project and an embroidery project in my craft bag at any given time. The key to doing this successfully I found, is having all my supplies handy and ready to go, so that I don't have to get up and look for my tools. I too also give my hands a break once in awhile and catch up on my reading, or writing.
Your video and advice today reminded me of a lovely friend I had years ago named Irna, who was 95 years old . She was originally from Germany and lived with her son. She had a very strong accent and many found it hard to understand her because she would insert German words in the conversation from time to time. Because I had lived for awhile in Switzerland, a minister from my church asked me if I would go regularly on Friday and visit with Irna and read to her. What a gift she was to me!
One of the things that impressed me so much is that next to her chair was a basket full of granny squares and balls of yarn all neatly organized. She also had a little table in her room with all the tools and supplies to make little pin cushions, that she gave to her friends. She happily worked on a little something everyday. Not for hours at a time but a little here and there. I always wanted to be at peace with my projects like Irna was, having fun and playing with my yarn each day the way a child does. After watching dear Irna I decided to stop worrying about how much I produced or how fast, or how perfect my project was and just enjoy the journey. Of course I have my moments...like today when I discovered after 3 weeks of knitting very intricate Selbu mittens that I made two left mittens!! What a rookie mistake you should have seen my face when I triumphantly put it only to realize what I had done. haha. But like they say every mistake can be an opportunity, so tomorrow I will begin work on the two remaining right gloves and I will have an extra pair to give as a gift someday :) Thanks for listening to my little story tonight! You have a wonderful channel and it just keeps getting better and better!
Thank you sooooo much for sharing the story of Irna! She sounds like a wonderful lady and I love her attitude about yarn projects. It's a good reminder for me today!! Thank you!! ❤️❤️❤️
And lol about the Selbu mittens!! I made a pair of Selbu socks and thankfully there is no right or left with them!! But gifting your second pair will be a treasure for a lucky friend or family member! 🧶🧶🧶
I have a squishy thing for that purpose that I acquired as a teacher. All the teachers were given these things. It's like the squishy thing they give you to squeeze when you donate blood. Mine is in the shape of an apple (a teacher themed meme).
Im also going to recommend have a lap desk or a pillow under your arms to help could work wonders. I myself have a habit of holding my work up halfway and looking down half way so i get right shoulder pain which i had a prior injury so it agravates it more then looking down im sure we all relate to. Ideally would be an adjustable table that can pull in close to you so you don't lean and something with adjustable height. Hope this can help. I get so into crocheting i too am guilty of this so no judgement
Thank you so much for sharing this idea!!! 🧶🧶🧶
I gave myself a ganglion cyst in my right wrist teaching my self to crochet!!! It only took a year to absolutely annihilate my wrist and back. ): I’m considering giving it up because I’m scared of hurting myself again. Clearly I’m doing something wrong
I also ended up with a ganglion cyst! Ouch! But I've healed up 90% of my aches and pains by being more mindful! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for the information. My hands and fingers get stiff if I crochet too long.
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶