It hurts to shake hands how do I gracefully not shake hands without appearing rude?

Question

I have a lot of joint pain in my hands and arms and don't know how to gracefully get out of shaking hands with friends and aquaintances.

Answer 1

Explain why you cant without making a big deal over it. Honesty is easier than trying to avoid the matter and people will understand.

If you are brief and truthful, you can get through most socially uncomfortable situations in my experience.

Answer 2

Interesting question. I cannot think of a way to avoid shaking hands gracefully without providing some kind of explantation. Here is an idea: Come up with a short and sweet stock phrase, such as: "I don't shake hands because it hurts my hands." Practice delivering it with a quiet smile that indicates it is no big deal, and not something you want to discuss. Do it a little pro-actively, so your explanation comes before they stretch out their hand to shake. If you can reach out and touch the person's hand or perhaps shoulder, it will be a much warmer gesture.

You may have to practice this for a few weeks before it becomes comfortable.

Answer 3

I have the same problem and men I especially cringe when getting ready to shake hands.. I have learned that I just cannot take the chance, it hurts to much!

When they extend their hand I say, I am sorry, it hurts to shake. Or sometimes I just take the tip of their hand and they seem to understand and don't take it as being rude.

As the other person said, you could just touch them at the elbow of their left arm.

Or you can do like Howie Mandell and do the fist thing..lol

Answer 4

while i love the namaste suggestion, many just get confused by it! why don't you try just standing back and saying, let me get a look at you! with a big smile, and then say what a pleasure it is to make their acquaintance. usually, most have moved past the "handshake"window. if they ask directly, you can answer directly without appearing rude. i know quite a few seniors that use this technique for their athritic hands.

Answer 5

Yup, I'd just say something like,"I'd love to shake your hand, but I have a lot of pain in may hands and arms".

If someone just honestly told me I wouldn't be offended whatsoever.

Answer 6

i have thumb pain but i shake hands anyway i don't mind the pain

Answer 7

Just tell'em

"I have a lot of joint pain in my hands and arms"

You bet no -one will try to shake ur hands then...

Answer 8

youll have to just touch them on the arm maybe

Answer 9

learn to say namaste
indian style
:)))))))))

best of luck with your pain