Use splints, supports, and assistive devices whenever possible, but ONLY after consulting with your physician or therapist. Follow and read all manufacturers labels for safety tips and instructions. Careless use of tools, or using tools at tasks, for which they were not designed, is asking for trouble. When using any tool and especially power tools be sure that you understand its operation thoroughly. Keep blades clean and sharp, not only on knives and pruning shears, but on shovels, trowels, and hoes as well.
Dull tools cause fatigue.
Save your fingers. Tools can pinch or cut them, and the repetitive use of the finger, such as in pressing a squeeze-trigger spray bottle, can cause damage to tendons and joints. Alternate finger-intensive activity with less demanding hand tasks, or switch from finger to finger as you work. Watch hands and wrists, which are particularly susceptible to tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Repeated grip-and release movements, like those used in operating pruning spears, are a prime cause of hand and wrist discomfort.