Critics' picks

TYPECASTING You’ve either got one or you know someone who is constantly connected to one. I’m talking about the BlackBerry, the handheld device that sends e-mails, text messages and even doubles as a phone. The popularity of that little machine gives the new Crackberry Treatment ($45) at Renovo Spa For Men a guaranteed customer base. My BlackBerry is never more than five feet away, so I eagerly anticipated some pampering for my overworked paws. The 45-minute, four-step treatment included a nail and cuticle trimming, vigorous exfoliation of my hands and forearms (to reduce swelling), a warm-lotion massage (to soothe achy digits), and a hot-towel wrap. When I got my hands back on my little e-mail machine, they really did feel limbered up, and I think I may have been able to click those teeny buttons just a little bit faster. 5641 W Dempster Ave, Morton Grove (877-483-2600, www.renovoformen.com).—Marc Geelhoed

Photograph by Martha Williams