Do you find it is more difficult to hold a pen or open a door than it used to be? Maintaining function and reducing joint pain in your hands and wrists is imperative. Many people suffer from wrist and hand pain, primarily as a result of arthritis or fibromyalgia that limits their ability to do the everyday tasks that used to come as second nature.

Your hands perform a variety of tasks every day that require wrist and hand strength – opening jars, typing on a keyboard, holding your phone, gripping a steering wheel, carrying groceries and others. Without the ability to perform these seemingly simple tasks can feel very disabling not to mention frustrating.

In many cases, there is a way to maintain functionality using simple exercise in warm water. Since the beginning of time people have used warm water to help alleviate their ailments, decrease inflammation and increase range of motion.

“The research shows our ancestors got it right. It makes you feel better. It makes the joints looser. It reduces pain and it seems to have a somewhat prolonged effect that goes beyond the period of immersion,” says Bruce E. Becker, MD, director of the National Aquatics & Sports Medicine Institute at Washington State University in Spokane.

Warm water exercises can help prevent injury, ease slight pain and help strengthen your wrists and keep hands and fingers flexible. Listed below are five exercises you can do on your own in a warm pool or cool hot tub (preferably between 92-100 degrees). Please remember that slow and deliberate movements are much preferred.

* Please note: If you have severe inflammation or joint damage, please speak with your healthcare provider before attempting new movements or stretches.