Walking Pole Grip with Thumb Pinch Channel and Palm Cradle

Abstract

This novel, strapless hand grip is intended to be used with a Nordic walking pole or other walking stick to reduce hand, wrist, or other musculoskeletal strain. This invention is a hand grip in a largely cylindrical design with two thumb channels at the top of the hand grip, which provides a more natural position for the thumb. The two thumb position channels allow the user to choose between a grasp or pinch position. This invention has a curved platform extending from the lower section of the hand grip, which provides a cradle for the ulnar side of the user's hand. This cradle supports the hand and/or wrist and may reduce pressure on the trapeziometacarpal and radiocarpal joints by keeping the wrist in a neutral position. By incorporating the thumb channels and platform, a wrist strap is not a required component, further reducing possible stress and pain points.

1 . A grip handle that may be used with a sports pole or mobility device that is comprised of an elongated, cylindrical shaft where a support ledge extends out in a generally perpendicular orientation from the lower end of said grip handle and that may be in a curved shape, and one or more contoured support thumb channels located on the upper end of the handle. 
     
     
         2 . A grip handle, as in  claim 1  wherein said contoured thumb channel is, or channels are, located in the upper area of the handle, and the said channel or channels descend down towards the middle area of the handle. 
     
     
         3 . A grip handle as in  claim 1  wherein said elongated, cylindrical shaft is of sufficient length for a user to comfortably wrap their fingers around said grip handle and hold said grip handle. The handle may incorporate grooves for the fingers or may be smooth. 
     
     
         4 . The invention of  claim 1  further comprising of a right-handed grip handle and a left-handed grip handle wherein the thumb-contoured channel(s) to be located on the upper section of the handle facing the user when the user is holding the handle in front of their person, and the support ledge to be located on the lateral or outside of the handle facing the user when the user is holding the handle in front of their person. 
     
     
         5 . The invention as in  any one of the preceding claims  further comprising, on the lower end of the handle, an opening to accept a pole. 
     
     
         6 . The pole grip according to  claim 1  further comprising an optional wrist strap detachably coupled to the handle grip.