Hello!
I'm sure this is new to no one who hand milks. Any suggestions for improving hand cramping while hand milking nigerians? I've been at it almost a month. In some ways, things are getting better, coordination, endurance, etc. Overall milking time down. Thankfully only the one doe in milk so I'm sure I sound like a baby to you multiple goat milkers lol. Any suggestions on how to reduce/prevent the sharp pain and hand cramping while milking? Suspecting some possible carpal tunnel like symptoms are contributing. Haven't had these issues before but I don't have a desk job to really aggravate those nerves. Or maybe this is just something I will eventually toughen up and build up more strength.
Any suggestions or experiences are much appreciated :)
Replies
It is getting somewhat better. I've done a lot of what Julianne suggested but my current milker is not a fan of me taking longer ;) I do have the simple pulse ordered but still a month out on shipment. Next year there will be hopefully 6 girls in milk so we decided to invest. Just a pain (lol literally) in the mean time. Mostly my non-dominant hand at this stage. I can get about 1/3 of the left side done before I start having issues.
Kylie
You will love your Simple Pulse!!
Cleaning will take much longer than milking with just 1 goat, but it sounds like it will be worth it considering your situation. When you have 6 to milk, you are REALLY going to appreciate it :)
I've been using mine for about 4 years now and could not be more pleased with it. Feel free to reach out here with any questions :)
Tammy
Hi, I have serious arthritis in my joints as well as nerve damage from CTS. I still hand mik, but I use a modified method. I usually milk one side at a time to begin with, then when I warm up I can do short spurts using both hands. I take frequent quicks breaks as well. My does are used to it by now so it doesn't bother them. I wouldn't suggest getting a "suction" milker though. I've tried several, they do a poor job and the does hate them. If you can afford a pulsating one (I can't) those are a lot better. But it's probably not worth it for one doe. I guess my advice is to slow down, modify your technique and take breaks. Hope this helps!
Thanks for adding your advice Julieanne!!
tammy
Hi Kylie
Hopefully someone will hop on here with a better suggestion than mine which is strength comes with time. Although after a month, I would think you would be starting to feel less discomfort in your hands.
Is it improving at all?
Tammy