Is it rude not to shake hands?
@tracysmith159 (54)
United States
March 11, 2011 3:16pm CST
Here in America we greet people by shaking hands. However I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and a firm handshake can be painful sometimes for about a half hour after the handshake. Would it be rude if I asked people not to shake my hands?
3 responses
@hardworkinggurl (37063)
• United States
11 Mar 11
Hi tracy,
It is customary in my country, I am Puerto Rican to hug, kiss and or handshake. When our familiar acquaintances and or family do not do so we do consider that to be rude. However, you have an ailment so expressing to someone you have difficulty in handshaking I am sure they will be understanding.
A nice greet and including that you are unable to handshake would be totally understandable, in my opinion. 
@tracysmith159 (54)
• United States
12 Mar 11
Thank you for your feed back. I still do my best to continue to work, thankfully I work answering phone and typing in tickets, and I was having a hard time meet new workers and bosses because they all want to shake hands.
Explaining myself is much better than the pain.
@francismalz (520)
• Philippines
11 Mar 11
Shaking hands is a sign of unity and understanding. Not, it would not be rude.
:).
@la_chique (1498)
•
11 Mar 11
Not at all. All you need to do is say "I'm sorry, I'd shake your hand, but I suffer from arthritis". I know quite a few people who greet me by rubbing the top of my arm, rather than shaking my hand anyway (acquaintances), formally, I'd suggest that you say that though. I'd certainly not take offense to someone telling me. Its just being honest, and people prefer that anyway.
