Using emacs doesn't mean you have to use the default keys. I don't, because I find the defaults bad. I use the arrow keys and other bindings changed to my taste

Using emacs doesn't mean you have to use the default keys. I don't, because I find the defaults bad. I use the arrow keys and other bindings changed to my taste and my hands don't hurt. Emacs is only a bunch of defaults which you should adapt to your needs.