Sore joints starting out?

You probably are gripping the shifter too hard and resting your hand on the shifter when driving down the road with a firm grip on it. Don't rule out companies with auto transmissions; let the transmission do the shifting then you have one less thing to think about.

 

Get a back roller.....I use this every night after driving it helps...you can find them on amazon for 15-20 bucks....also drink lots of fluid and stretch....avoid soda and the pizza at loves...if you must eat pizza do it once a week....

 

I agree that you may be exerting too much grip and force on the shifter. Speaking from prior experience in a factory, it was normal for people to be sore for a couple weeks until their bodies adjusted to the new "routine". Unfortunately, some people's bodies never adapt and actually have hurt themselves to the point of surgery. I guess the questions I would have is how long has this been going on? The duration as wasn't sure how long your schooling was. If you believe it may be due to the way you were handling the shifter, then maybe you can make a conscious effort to grip the shifter with less force, and/or also just let the shifter "fall" into gear. I am definitely no doctor, but don't want you to hurt yourself either. My best friend at my former employer actually had to quit as his body was falling apart from the repetitive nature of the job... hope this may help you. Good Luck!

 

Get a copper bracelet, it stops joint pain. Plus the pain is imaginary and is just your way of telling yourself that you are stressed out mentally, that's it. This is a giant step in your life, accept it and relax and enjoy the journey.

 

I never had this the thing from shifting a modern truck, but it might be as was said too tight a grip , may be from holding onto steering wheel to tightly also , could be simple dehydration , I know it sounds weird but its one of top signs is unexplained cramping ect , hope it gets better , I really expect that all trucks one day will be automatic , just my .02¢

 

The continuous vibration from resting your hand/wrist on the shifter will cause inflammation. I had the same problem; just learn to not ride for extended periods with your hand on the shifter. Ibuprofen or naproxen will do wonders.

Also, you should be able to shift gears using only two fingers on the shifter. Caress it like it's your girlfriend; don't grab it like it's your... manhood.

 

Wait, what forum am I on...

lol

 

Potential dating website.

 

Learn how to float gears,(look into an automatic company might be good for you too) also put your hand on the shifter, if you shift right you can do it lightly with 2 fingers easily but I don't suggest this, what I suggest is depending what gear you are going in, you should only be touching about 2 inches of your palm/hand lightly.(your fingers shouldn't be doing any work when you shift and doesn't even need to touch the shifter) Same with the steering wheel not too tight of a grip but the ability to take control of the wheel with both hands in case of a tire blowout. And like my boss use to say are you driving the truck or are you letting the truck drive you, most things you do should be smooth minimal effort while driving.

Also besides doing all the good things for your health, I would consult a physician, and research remedies to combat arthritis.