For instance carrying groceries in plastic bags using your fingers can become painful, instead carry the bag on the forearm, or over your shoulder, if possible. Use joints in the most stable and functional plane. Again look at each joint and see how it moves and use it in only its plane of motion. This way you avoid strain that will stretch ligaments and result in loss of joint stability. Avoid staying in one position for long periods of time.
Muscles become fatigued in a static position and stress underlying ligaments and the joint capsule.
A prolonged position promotes stiffness and sustained joint compression can cause pressure in the joint and result in damage. Change positions often or stretch every twenty minutes. Avoid activities that cannot be stopped in order to rest. There are many large handled tools on the market that decrease stress to the hand. Instead of stirring batter, use a mixer.