4 Ways To Improve Your Manual Dexterity During Auto Mechanic School

Many mechanics are tactile individuals who prefer to work with their hands. Does that sound like you? If so, mechanic training could be a great place to get your career off the ground. If this is the path for you, one tool will prove to be more important than all the others. As a mechanic, you’ll need to use your hands for most everything and for that reason, you’d do best to ensure that your manual dexterity is in tip top shape to ensure your best work and avoid pain or injury. 

Manual dexterity is defined as your ability to perform a task with your hands. Ideally, mechanics should be able to hold their hands steady for extended periods of time, use fine motor skills to move their fingers in a precise manner to complete a repair. What if your manual dexterity isn’t that great? Don’t worry, there are some simple steps you can take to improve it. Keep reading for some tips. 

1. Begin A Training Program That Offers Hands-On Training

Sometimes, poor manual dexterity comes down to a lack of practice. In order to improve over time, before beginning your career search, try to find a training program that provides the opportunity to practice tasks that require precise hand and finger movements. When you attend auto mechanic school at ATC Montreal, lessons are hands-on and are taught by automotive experts who can show you how to use your hands properly. Small classes mean you can enjoy more one-on-one instruction to address your particular learning needs whether you need further explanation on a mechanical component or how to hold a particular tool properly. 

2. Remember To Stretch Your Wrists Before Working

After auto mechanic school, you’ll be required to use repetitive hand motions which can cause strain in your wrists. Many mechanics even develop unpleasant conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome due to the repetitive nature of the hand movements they must make in order to complete their tasks. The carpal tunnel is an opening in your wrist formed by your carpal bones. Oftentimes, one of the first symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome is numbness or a tingling sensation in your hands and fingers which undoubtedly affect dexterity and flexibility. Try to remember to stretch your wrist flexor and shake your wrists out  before you begin work in order to avoid carpal tunnel or a condition that mimics it.

3. Use A Squeeze Ball To Alleviate Pain After Auto Mechanic School

Are there ways for you to maintain your manual dexterity quickly and conveniently? Of course! Many professionals who work with their hands each day find it helpful to use a squeeze ball throughout the day in order to alleviate any pain from repeated strain. You can purchase squeeze balls at various department and office supply stores and they come in a variety of sizes for your comfort. Before, after, or during your work day, try holding the ball in your palm and squeeze as hard as you can without causing your hand pain. Hold the squeeze for three to five seconds before releasing.

4. Get Enough Rest 

After automotive training, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that your body gets the rest it needs to recuperate. The same applies to your hands as you will use them extensively each day as a mechanic. You could find it helpful to soak your hands and wrists in warm water, take epsom salt baths, and avoid working too much in order to maintain the health of the joints and muscles in your hands that are instrumental in flexibility and dexterity. With adequate practice, preventative measures, and rest, you’ll likely be ready to use your hands and become a highly effective mechanic. 

Are you ready to become a mechanic? 

Contact ATC Montreal to learn more!