I love to crochet but since I also use a computer every day for work and as I've gotten older, my wrists and fingers aren't always operating at full capacity. I don't think I have arthritis yet in my fingers but they do cramp up from time to time and I know I have the signs of carpal tunnel syndrome.
If I don't sleep with wrist braces at night, one or both of my hands are numb for 30-60 minutes in the morning. If I try to do too much with them first thing in the morning, they can also become numb. For example, if I drive within an hour of waking up in the morning, one of my hands is probably going to fall asleep on its own.
When you enjoy crocheting but experience pain or numbness because of the intense use of your hands that this hobby requires, it can be awfully frustrating!
I chose these styles based on research that suggests having as wide a handle as possible will allow you to grip more easily without having to close your fingers as much as you would with a smaller hook but I also focused on the shape of the tip.
I find that if the head of the hook is very deep, it can cause me more wrist movement in the end. I have to swivel my wrist to a greater degree to pull out of a stitch cleanly and/or I spend more time reworking a stitch because the point caught the yarn in another row as I pulled through.
Best Tulip Etimo Ergonomic Crochet Hook Set in Pink for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Sufferers
The handles are extremely soft. They're made of a high-quality plastic that has a smooth, rubbery feel yet they don't stick in your hand at all. They're more round than other comfort grips which makes them easy to hold. The head tips are not too pointed so they move like butter through your stitches. I find I have less hang ups and I can crochet for much longer when I use these.
The fact that they come with a gorgeous case and little accessories makes it a perfect travel set, too. Worth every penny.
Top Performing Clover Amour Comfort Grip Ergonomic Crochet Hooks
The handles are easy to hold, provide for less stress on both your fingers and your wrists and the head shape doesn't snag your yarn.
The ones I have aren't in nice, bright colors like these, though. I much prefer the rainbow look - it just makes the whole process more enjoyable.
Ergonomic Crochet Hooks with Wide Comfort Grip Handles for Arthritis
This option comes with a lot more accessories. The sizes range from 2mm to 6mm which covers a large range of projects including lace work and clothing.
Best Inexpensive Ergonomic Crochet Hooks with Colorful Handles
Don't let the price fool you. These are still well made and will hold up. They don't come with anything fancy but they're a great starter option if you're concerned about choosing the right handle shape.
Clover Ergonomic Crochet Hooks with Case
The set has high ratings among users. The only reason this item isn't higher on the list is because it costs more to get it with the case. If you don't need a case but like this style you should look at the Clover set up above.
Don't let wrist and joint pain hold you back from your favorite hobby. Get hooks with handles that are easier to hold and you'll be back at it in no time.
I love all these. Will look into getting them all.