[Kevin]

Buying an air powered system should solve your pain issues.

But if you are cutting copper or other soft metals by hand pushing, you should not have much problems if your technique and posture is correct.

I hand push and have arthritis in my wrist. Have to limit the time I spend per day engraving. Lately have found that I was doing some things that increased wear and tear on my joints.

Try to keep your wrist straight. I use an arm rest.

The more downward pressure you apply, the more force is required to push the graver forward, resulting in more strain on your body in addition to more slips. So try to use a minimum of downward pressure on the graver. (just learned this lately by cutting some fairly hard stainless steel)

Keep graver sharp.

Use a geometry that works for hand pushing. Wide geometries and steep face angles are hard to push through the metal.

Don't grip the graver too tightly, except when coming to a stop. Then tighten grip up when coming to a stop for better control.

Don't try to go too deep or wide in one cut or pass.