Cooking used to be my favorite hobby, but lately, my hands and lower back just can’t keep up with the demands of a busy kitchen. I’ve had to rethink how I organize things to keep the pain at bay.
First, I highly recommend switching to electric tools. An automatic jar opener and a cordless electric can opener have saved my fingers so much grief.
Second, don’t be afraid to sit down! I bought a high-set stool so I can prep vegetables at the counter without standing for twenty minutes. It makes a world of difference for my knees and spine.
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The stool is a game changer. I actually moved my cutting board to the kitchen table so I can sit in a regular chair while I prep. Much easier on the lower back.
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What kind of stool did you get? I’ve been looking for one but I’m worried about it being wobbly.
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I swapped out all my heavy ceramic plates for Corelle. They are so much lighter and easier to lift in and out of the upper cabinets. My wrists don’t throb nearly as much after doing the dishes now.
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Has anyone tried those rocker knives? I have trouble with the traditional slicing motion because of my thumb arthritis.
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Yes! Rocker knives are excellent. You just push down and rock it back and forth. No gripping required. Also, look into ‘fat grip’ utensils. They have thicker handles that are way easier to hold if you can’t close your fist all the way.
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I honestly just started buying the pre-chopped onions and garlic at the grocery store. It costs a little more, but it saves me from the pain of dicing everything myself. Sometimes the convenience is worth the extra dollar.
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Good point about the pre-cut stuff. I do the same with butternut squash. Trying to peel and cut those things is like a workout I didn’t sign up for!
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I put an anti-fatigue mat in front of my sink. It’s like standing on a cloud. Really helps if you have foot or ankle issues.
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If you have lever-style handles on your kitchen faucet instead of those round knobs you have to twist, it makes a huge difference too.
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I gave away my cast iron skillet last year. It broke my heart, but it was just too heavy to wash. I switched to a high-quality non-stick pan that weighs about half as much.
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Don’t forget about the slow cooker or an air fryer. They do most of the work for you so you aren’t standing over a hot stove stirring things for an hour.
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I use those silicone sheets for opening jars. They give you a much better grip than a towel does.
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Great tips everyone. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, so we can keep doing what we love.
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