Stress ball for hand therapy

Description

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Unique soft feel Hand Exerciser ball for rehabbing and strengthening hands, and is essential for rock climbers, bodybuilders, golfers, guitarists, pianists, and racket sports players to increase grip strength
Great for increasing flexibility, range of motion, fine and gross motor skills and relieving arthritis pain, can be heated or cooled for hot and cold therapy relief and is easy to clean with soap and water
Product may become tacky with use, and you can reduce stickiness simply by dusting product with either corn starch or baby powder
The softer yellow and red models are a non-messy alternative to hand putty, stronger models are a far better option than standard stress balls or other hand strength devices
8 Lbs. of Force at 50% Compression, 2� Diameter ball, with exercise instructions

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It’s probably safe to say we’re all a little stressed right now. And if like many people, you hold stress and tension in your hands, then it might be a good idea to try stress balls for hand therapy. Here’s what you need to know about buying the right one for you, plus our favorite brands to try.

Stress Ball Buying Guide

Stress balls have come a long way since the generic ones you used to pick up at the dollar store. Today, the stress ball market still features some more traditional models, but it’s also saturated with a plethora of unique gadgets that can help you relieve pain and tension in your hands.

Stress balls are more needed than ever. So many jobs require that you spend long periods of time typing in front of a computer screen. Plus, many of us are typing away on our smartphones, too, which can lead to hand pain. The best stress balls help relax your hands and fingers, relieve stress, and even help build grip strength.

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When you’re shopping for a stress ball, take your own unique needs into consideration. If you haven’t tried out many different stress balls or hand therapy gadgets, you may want to select a variety pack so you find out what you like. Some options come with carrying straps for extra portability, while others are available in kits with other stress-relief accessories.

The Best Stress Balls to Buy Right Now

To get you started, we’ve selected some of the most versatile stress ball picks you can buy right now to have at the office and on your commutes alike.

1. Imenseas Stress Relief Pack

Feeling stiff? This stress-relief kit brings a variety of new tools to your disposal so you can let go of the tension in your hands. There’s a conventional stress ball here to help you get started, but the kit also includes six other gadgets, including finger stretchers, a hand strengthening grip ring, and a hand and finger exercise that helps increase overall flexibility. 

Amazon

Buy Imenseas Stress Relief Pack $17.99

2. Pnrskter Wrist Strenght Workout Kit

If your hands feel tired from typing all day, then try keeping these stress gadgets at your desk and using them throughout your day. By taking breaks to work with these finger exercisers and grip strength trainers, your hands will get a workout and release built-up tension in the process. This is a great kit because it has pieces that support three different fitness levels. As your hand strength increases, you can move up to the next set of pieces. 

Buy Pnrskter Wrist Strenght Workout Kit $11.99

3. StringyBall Stress Ball

We love StringBall stress balls because they’re easy to keep track of all day, thanks to the built-in carrying strap. Whether you’re heading to work on your commute in the morning or just heading into another meeting, you’ll never lose track of this ball when you’re on the go. You can score a three-ball set, which includes soft, medium, and firm stress balls. 

Amazon

Buy StringyBall Stress Ball $17.99

4. Fanwer Squeeze Stress Ball

This stress-relieving pick is similar to the old-school stress balls, but it has one major upgrade that makes all the difference: It has loops for your fingers that prevent finger cramps and help promote healthy joint positioning. These stress balls help you work through stress and are comfortable to use at the same time. 

Amazon

Buy Fanwer Squeeze Stress Ball $9.99

Here, the best stress balls on the market, according to a licensed mental health counselor.

“Sometimes when a person is feeling stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed, they have a desire to squeeze,” says Lisa McCrohan, MA, LCSW-C, SEP, a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author. This is where stress balls can help.

Many things—from genetics to your environment—can cause increased anxiety , feelings of restlessness, and rumination. Fidget toys, such as fidget spinners or stress balls, are thought to aid in relieving stress and distracting individuals from rumination and anxiety. As such, using a stress ball to expel energy and calm fidgeting might be helpful.

Best Overall

Stress Less Stress Balls with Motivational Quotes 3 Pack

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Pros

• Uplifting quotes included

• Packaged for gifting

• Good for hand therapy

Cons

• All are the same resistance

• Faint smell reported

Combine a positive affirmation with a physical outlet for a double dose of stress relief. Sold as a pack of three, these stress balls come with happy quotes written on them to help shift your thoughts from stress to positivity. Made from polyurethane foam and available in four different color options, this is a durable and anxiety-relieving option.

Price at time of publication: $14

Items in set: 3 | External material: Polyurethane | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Polyurethane

Best Color

Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball

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Pros

• Good for kids and adults

• Can be washed in water

• Great customer service and refund policy

Cons

• Too large for some

• Some report bursting/leaking

The gentle ombre of rainbow colors and larger size make this stress toy a good option for extra frustrating days when you need physical and emotional stress relief. Whether you need to vent, let out aggression, or keep both hands busy at once (it’s 5-inch diameter is big enough to keep both hands occupied), this is a great option. The rainbow colors are bright and uplifting and this stress ball is easily cleaned if it gets dirty from use.

Price at time of publication: $13

Items in set: 1 | External material: Rubber | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Gel

Best Scent

Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack

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Pros

• Good for aromatherapy

• Multiple color options

• Soft and comfortable exterior

Cons

• All are the same resistance

• Material may stretch over time

Smells can have a direct effect on mood. Research shows that lavender has a calming influence over brain waves and neurotransmitters. These stress balls are handmade and filled with dried lavender flowers. Gentle squeezing helps release the scent. They can be smelled, squeezed, and even tossed around in the air due to their lightweight and soft texture.

Price at time of publication: $26

Items in set: 3 | External material: Spandex | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Dried Lavender flowers

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Best for Small Hands

MindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle

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Pros

• Compact case included

• Multiple resistance levels

• Latex- and BPA-free

Cons

• Scent may be too strong

• Resistance level not specified

Mind Panda stress balls come in packs of three, each with a different resistance level, scent, and empowering questions printed on them. The multiple resistance options allow the customer to choose which fit feels the most comfortable and soothing. A hand-strengthening exercise guide comes with each pack. Use this option for focused strength training or for mindless fidgeting to help fight boredom or anxiety during long meetings, work assignments or any time you need stress relief. 

Price at time of publication: $23

Items in set: 3 | External material: Lycra | Resistance: Soft, medium, hard | Fill: Thermoplastic gel

Best for Strengthening Hands

The Friendly Swede Stress Balls 3 Pack

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Pros

• Multiple color options

• Ergonomic egg shape design

• Multiple resistance levels

Cons

• Exterior is slightly sticky

The unique egg shape of this stress toy is designed specifically for strength training exercises and the relief of hand and joint pain. There are various color options to choose from as well as options ranging from 20 to 40 pounds of resistance. They come in multiple sizes to get just the right fit for kids and adults. They are made from thermoplastic rubber and are designed to strengthen muscles while simultaneously easing joint pain and carpal tunnel pain.

Price at time of publication: $17

Items in set: 3 | External material: Thermoplastic rubber | Resistance: 20, 30, and 40 pounds | Fill: Thermoplastic rubber

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Best Variety Pack

BAUTVAS DNA Squishy Stress Balls for Kids

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Pros

• Great for kids and adults

• Variety of textures included

• 90-day replacement or refund period

Cons

• Strong odor reported

• May burst or get punctured

The need for a particular type of stress ball or fidget toy can often depend on our mood at the time, especially for kids. With 8 different toys ranging in color and texture, including some filled with tactile beads, kids or adults have more than enough options to choose from. This is a great option for small classroom settings or families with multiple kids.

Price at time of publication: $14

Items in set: 8 | External material: Thermoplastic rubber | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Silicone

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Most Durable

Serenilite Stress Balls 3-Pack

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Pros

• Durable exterior

• Lifetime warranty

• Good for hand therapy

Cons

• On the smaller side

• Resistance levels not specified

Made with high-quality materials, these ergonomic stress balls feature a tear-resistant gel core and non-stick fabric for ultimate comfort. The design is made to combine color therapy and physical therapy to strengthen hands and wrists while calming anxieties and stress. Made for both kids and adults, this stress toy can handle your most frustrating days.

Price at time of publication: $18

Items in set: 3 | Material: Parachute nylon | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Gel

Best for Physical Therapy

GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy

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Pros

• Ergonomic egg shape

• Multiple resistance levels

• 100 percent satisfaction guarantee

Cons

• Sticky exterior

For hand, wrist, or finger rehabilitation, a stress ball may be an optimal tool for physical therapy. The GOZATO squeeze ball set includes five stress balls with multiple resistance levels. Each resistance level—from extra soft (22 pounds) to extra firm (88 pounds)— corresponds with a different ball color, making it easy to find the one you need. The ergonomic shape helps with therapy exercises and makes it comfortable to hold.

Each one is made with thermoplastic rubber which is hypoallergenic, recyclable, and latex-free. Plus, the set comes with a cloth bag, making them easy to take on the go.

Price at time of publication: $8

Items in set: 3 | Material: Parachute nylon | Resistance: 22-88 pounds | Fill: Thermoplastic rubber

Best for Temperature Therapy

Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer

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Pros

• Can be heated or chilled

• Finger loop for optimal grip

• Filled with natural grains

Cons

• Doesn’t stay warm for long

• Ball doesn’t compress well

Heat or temperature therapy is designed to improve blood flow and circulation—soothing discomfort and easing muscle pain. In conjunction with the movements used to squeeze a stress ball, the temperature may provide a multi-dimensional approach to physical therapy practices. The Bed Buddy Store stress ball can be heated or cooled depending on your personal needs. Filled with natural grains, it provides resistance for squeezing and holding in your hand.

The ball is coated in a soft polyester material and it has a small finger loop to keep it from rolling out of your hand. When heating it, place it in the microwave for 30 seconds. When cooling the stress ball, the brand recommends placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Price at time of publication: $6

Items in set: 3 | Material: Parachute nylon | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Natural grain

Best for Kids

FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls 24-Pack

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Pros

• Large variety

  Good for party favors

  Sized well for kids

Cons

• Strong odor reported

It’s difficult to stay stressed and frustrated with a funny face stress ball helping you out. There are 24 bright, funny faces to choose from in this pack. At 2.5 inches in diameter, they are comfortable for kids and adults alike. The foam filling is soothing for anxiety, restlessness, or sore hands from typing or writing. The large variety pack is also great for kids party gifts.

Price at time of publication: $18

Items in set: 24 | Material: Foam | Resistance: N/A | Fill: Foam