If you have arthritis in your hands or wrists, doing dishes is probably one of the worst parts of your day. However, while a dishwasher may seem like a luxury that’s not exactly necessary, it might actually be an essential tool for those with joint and connective issues.

One of the main reasons that dishwashers are so helpful for those with joint pain is because the repetitive motion that comes along with doing dishes by hand can make your issues even worse. The Arthritis Foundation even says that using a dishwasher can help save your joints from getting worse.

For many people, the size of a typical dishwasher also makes it difficult to use for those with joint issues. Fortunately, there are some smaller dishwashers on the market that can be used anywhere you have running water and an outlet.

As the weather begins to cool and the leaves begin to change, those who suffer from joint and connective issues are often left wondering how they can stay on top of their household chores. While many of these tasks are difficult for anyone, those with arthritis in their hands or wrists may find it nearly impossible to complete daily tasks like cleaning dishes. But you don’t have to worry about purchasing a new dishwasher just yet. Here are some tips for choosing a dishwasher that fits your needs and budget.

Narrow Dishwashers: A Useful Tool for Those With Mobility Issues

For those who suffer from arthritis, especially in the hands and wrists, the use of a dishwasher can be a great tool to help ease some of the pain and stress put on the joints. There are many ways that using a dishwasher can help those with hand problems.

Dishwashers do not require any large movements of your hands or wrists. Many times people who suffer from arthritis in these areas have issues with repetitive large movements or motions. The use of a dishwasher requires you to only place dishes inside and take them out at the end. This will allow you to avoid the larger motions that may cause pain or discomfort in the joints.

Standing up straight is not just good for your back, it can also help your hands and wrists. When you stand tall with good posture, this helps reduce stress on all of your joints, including your hands and wrists. Using a dishwasher means you won’t need to bend over to wash dishes by hand, which would add more stress to your joints as well as more pressure on your back.

Cold water doesn’t hurt as much as hot water does for those who suffer from arthritis in their hands or wrists. Hot water can cause swelling and pain in those with arthritis, so using cold water will allow you to avoid

There is a variety of conditions that can leave you with limited mobility in your hands, wrists and fingers. Some of these conditions include arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis. If you have any of these conditions you probably already know how hard it can be to get through your daily tasks.

Dishwashing can be particularly difficult for those with joint and connective tissue issues. The repetitive motions involved in washing the dishes by hand can increase inflammation in the joints and cause pain to worsen.

Using a dishwasher is an excellent way to save your hands while still keeping your kitchen clean. You can find lots of information on dishwashers online or visit your local home goods store to look at different models and get advice on which one might work best for you.

Tough household tasks like washing the dishes can be a challenge for people with arthritis in the hands or wrists. But it’s one that can be overcome by using a dishwasher:

“A dishwasher is an invaluable tool for people with joint problems, including arthritis,” says Dr. Jeffrey Katz, director of the Orthopedic and Arthritis Center for Outcomes Research at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. “Instead of having to take a pot or pan from the sink to the counter and bring it back to dry, you just put it in the dishwasher. Not having to do all those repetitive motions can be a big help.”

Katz suggests these tips for making life easier when washing dishes:

* Use the right tools. Look for special utensils such as grippers, jar openers and long-handled silverware. Sponge holders attach to the faucet and keep sponges securely in place so they’re easier to reach.

* Change your grip. You don’t have to use a death grip on every item you hold; try placing your fingers between two handles instead of gripping them tightly. A cloth or sponge is much easier to wash with than a brush because it requires less force, especially if you squeeze out excess

The hands and wrists are common spots for arthritis to develop. According to the Arthritis Foundation, “Arthritis is a general term for a group of more than 100 diseases.” The symptoms vary, but they often include pain and stiffness in the joints.

Arthritic hands can make everyday tasks difficult. Something as simple as washing dishes can be challenging. This is where the dishwasher comes in handy. A dishwasher may be able to save you time and energy when it comes to tasks that require repetitive motions.

Dishwashers do require some hand strength, though, so keep this in mind before making your next purchase. If you have any questions about whether you’ll be able to use your dishwasher safely, talk with your doctor or occupational therapist.

The typical dishwasher is 18 inches wide and they take up valuable counter space. Most of us don’t have that kind of space to spare in our kitchens.

But we do want clean dishes, so what’s a person to do?