for people with diabetesChecking blood sugar is part of the daily routine. But are you making it more painful than it needs to be? According to Dr Roshni Sanghani, senior diabetes doctor and top endocrinologist, many people make a big mistake – they prick their fingers at the wrong place.

“Our fingers are incredibly sensitive; They help us perceive and interact with the world,” explains Dr Sanghani. “Sticking a needle between your fingers is not only painful, but also unnecessary.” Instead, she suggests a simple trick to make it much easier.

Bring your palms together in a “Namaste” posture. This makes the edges of your fingers visible and you should aim at those places while pricking. The edges are less sensitive, so it won’t cause as much damage. “It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference,” she says. If you want even more options, try yoga poses—these hand poses also naturally expose the sides of your fingers. Are. With five fingers and two arms each, you have 10 positions to choose from, so you’re not using the same positions over and over again.

This small change can go a long way in making blood sugar testing more comfortable. “Testing shouldn’t feel like a chore. If it hurts less, you are more likely to do it regularly, and that is key to managing diabetes,” says Dr. Sanghani says.

For those who still find pricks too uncomfortable or simply want to avoid it altogether, there is another option: a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). These devices stick to your skin and monitor your skin blood sugar level 24/7—even when you sleep. “CGMs give you a detailed picture of how your body is responding to food, stress and activity,” says Dr. Sanghani. Although they can be expensive, they are incredibly helpful for people who want to keep a close eye on their glucose levels without having to prick a finger every now and then.

Dr. Sanghani emphasizes that regular testing – whether with a glucometer or CGM – is essential. “Your blood sugar levels tell you how your body is handling daily life. The more you know, the better you can manage your health.”

So, the next time you’re about to prick your finger, take a moment to try these tips. Use the sides of your fingers, rotate locations, or consider a CGM if that’s appropriate for you. The test should not be painful or scary. With a little change in how you do it, you can make it a quick and painless part of your routine. And the best part? It keeps you in control of your health.

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