If you are being treated for a condition involving the hands or wrists, your physical therapist may recommend using a squeeze ball. Many people also rely on squeeze balls for everyday stress relief. We have a number of these products in stock here at ITC Medical Supplies, featuring a variety of designs and materials. Keep reading to learn more about squeeze balls, then come shop with us in San Francisco, CA.

Also known as stress balls or exercise balls, a squeeze ball is a soft round object (not always a sphere) that you can easily squeeze in your hand. The squeeze ball quickly expands to its original size and shape after being squeezed. Some squeeze balls are made with solid foam, while others are composed of malleable gel or clay contained in rubber. Squeeze balls can be spherical, ovoid, or star-shaped. They are also available in different levels of density, and many have dimpled textures to improve grip.

Squeeze balls can be used for a wide range of purposes, from targeted exercise to general relaxation. The simple act of squeezing a ball serves to gently exercise the muscles of your hands and wrists, and allows you to build grip strength and flexibility without causing further strain to weak muscles. This can be very beneficial to people with chronic conditions like arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, and to those recovering from acute injuries.

People who use keyboards or handheld devices all day at work can avoid repetitive stress injuries by taking frequent breaks and exercising with a squeeze ball. Because the hands and the brain are closely linked, squeeze balls can also stimulate parts of the brain and activate endorphins that relieve stress and anxiety. Studies have indicated that squeezing a ball can even increase the oxygen levels in your brain and lower the risk of stroke.

You can simply squeeze your squeeze ball throughout the day for quick stress relief, or you can perform targeted exercises with your squeeze ball to improve strength and flexibility in the hands and wrists. Your physical therapist may suggest one or more specific methods, depending on your therapeutic needs.

One of these methods is the table roll, which involves placing the squeeze ball on a tabletop and rolling it under your palm. To exercise the fingers individually, you can pinch the squeeze ball between the thumb and finger. You can also press the squeeze ball between your palms to exercise both the hands and wrists at once.

No matter which exercise method you are practicing, remember to give your hands plenty of time to rest and recover. If your squeeze ball is causing you pain or fatigue, discontinue use and consult your physical therapist.

We hope you found this guide helpful! If you have any questions about squeeze balls, feel free to ask the staff at ITC Medical Supplies. You can find us in San Franciso, CA.