We spent hours scouring the internet to find the best exercise equipment for arthritis, evaluating materials, weight limitations, price, ease of use, and ergonomics. Our top picks include forearm grips with customizable weight resistance, a silicone finger stretcher, and a stress ball you can use anywhere. 

Here is the best exercise equipment for arthritis.

Price at time of publication: $18

Price at time of publication: $14

Price at time of publication: $12

The putty comes in four, three-ounce containers and is odorless, non-toxic, latex free. This silicone-based putty will last without graining, so stretch, squeeze, and poke it all you want. Your hands will thank you later.

Price at time of publication: $20 

Price at time of publication: $10

Price at time of publication: $17

Travel

One of the best things about hand exercisers for arthritis is that they’re created with casual activity in mind, meaning you can utilize them while working at your desk or sitting in the passenger seat on a road trip. That’s why you want to make sure your equipment can easily fit into your purse or backpack, to go wherever you go.

Resistance level

Choose the equipment that works with your current physical ability. Several hand exercisers have the ability to adjust the resistance or may come in multiples of various strengths. This gives you the ability to start slow with a less intense workout and increase resistance over time.

Target area and goals

The equipment should match the area you wish to work on such as the wrist, fingers, or both. It should also align with your goals, which might include increased muscle tone, grip strength, fine motor skills, or a combination of these. Equipment that resembles a rubber band is helpful for stretching fingers, while you may want something to squeeze for grip strength. Molding therapy putty can help with dexterity or picking up small objects.

Why Trust Verywell Health

Having been raised by two medical professionals, Amari Pollard understands the importance of health literacy. As a seasoned health writer, she is committed to producing well-researched and well-sourced product reviews to help people make informed medical decisions.

Rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect both hands at once, beginning with stiffness and progressing to pain and tenderness. It more often affects the middle joints in the finger and the joints where the fingers meet the hand. Other joints, such as the knees, elbows, or ankles, may also be painful.