I have rheumetoid arthritis and my right hand is often swollen and sore. When the pain of a firm handshake makes my nervous I use my left hand.
Would you be offended by this not knowing about my condition? Have any suggestions for dealing with this?
2007-12-18 10:31:00 · 11 answers · asked by Consider_This 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Handshakes aren't meant to be painful. Shake with your left and do it with ease and confidence.
2007-12-18 11:09:01 · answer #1 · answered by beez 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't volunteer to shake hands. I liked the previous answerer's suggestion about a slight bow of the head. If someone reaches out their right hand, you might just say that your hand is injured, sparing you a long, drawn out explanation of your condition. A number of people I know who are germ phobes don't shake hands.
2007-12-18 20:32:00 · answer #2 · answered by bobcat97 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Either use your left hand or don't shake hands at all. If you have to expain then tell them you have too much pain in your right to shake hands.
Personally I never shake hands, I just see no reason for it, since I'm female.
2007-12-18 22:36:02 · answer #3 · answered by freebird 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Senator Bob Dole can't shake with his right hand. He carries a pen in his right hand all the time and shakes with his left.
2007-12-19 02:15:09 · answer #4 · answered by June B 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just shake with your left.. no need to put yourself in pain for someone's THOUGHT of what is right or wrong. You can always just say something such as "sorry shaking with my right is painful" if they question, most wont...
Another possible option is dont shake at all, rather bow your head to them. As most oriental do, its not looked upon as rude or negative, rather a custom, no one will know it isn't yours!
Good luck!
2007-12-18 18:36:21 · answer #5 · answered by Lisa G 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I am left-handed, and I just use my left hand. I am only 13, but it may be easier- staying to one side. Also, are you on pain medications?
2007-12-18 18:33:15 · answer #6 · answered by Someone 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I think it was peculiar but would not be offended. You can drop the reason why during a subsequent conversation
2007-12-18 19:01:33 · answer #7 · answered by Scouse 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Your supposed to shake with your right hand?
I shake with whatever i feel like it. Just tell them what you told us.
2007-12-18 18:40:59 · answer #8 · answered by Sharlette C 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
wrap your hand when it's swollen so it looks injured and they will understand. i don't care what hand to shake with
2007-12-18 18:37:34 · answer #9 · answered by jpwop1993 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I would not. But there some cultures that would be very upset.
Unless you are a diplomatic mission--don't worry about it.
2007-12-18 18:36:52 · answer #10 · answered by Fred F 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋