Too Much Texting Can Cause Wrist Problems
Are you guilty of texting too much texting?
Almost everyone nowadays has a cell phone. In fact, texting has become more common than calling. But, are you guilty of texting too much? And what exactly is too much texting?
On average, 5 hours of texting increases the risk for carpal tunnel. As a matter of fact, using smartphones or tablets in general increases the risk with continuous scrolling, tapping, and swiping. All of it is bad for your wrists.
The repetitive motion puts pressure on the median nerve. And the median nerve provides sensation to your fingers. Any damage to this nerve causes tingling and burning. Without correction, however, permanent damage can result.
What Studies Say About Texting Too Much
Are you guilty of texting too much texting?
Almost everyone nowadays has a cell phone. In fact, texting has become more common than calling. But, are you guilty of texting too much? And what exactly is too much texting?
On average, 5 hours of texting increases the risk for carpal tunnel. As a matter of fact, using smartphones or tablets in general increases your risk with continuous scrolling, tapping, and swiping. All of it is bad for your wrists.
The repetitive motion puts pressure on the median nerve. And the median nerve provides sensation to your fingers. Any damage to this nerve causes tingling and burning. Without correction, however, permanent damage can result.
What Studies Say About Texting Too Much
Studies have found that 5 hours is all it takes. Young people report wrist pain after this amount of time. And ultrasound images show damage. But what are we to do? Phones, tablets, and texting are essential in the 21st century.
The same type of strain and damage has been seen even before the introduction of smart devices. Using a mouse and keyboard causes the same issues. Therefore, if you are an avid smartphone and computer user, you are at higher risk. Video games are also included. Which makes both work and leisure time damaging to your wrists.
The worst symptoms, however, are seen when using multiple devices. Or while using a phone one-handed. Any symptoms you experience should be brought to your physician’s attention. In fact, a famous study in Hong Kong looked into this.
The research included individuals that used devices more than 5 hours a day. Then they were compared to less frequent users. Shockingly, 92 percent of the first group reported wrist pain! On the other hand, only 12 percent of the less frequent users have weighed in with pain. Scans also showed differences in the median nerve. And it was significantly flattened, infrequent users.
The Dangers of Texting
The flattening of this nerve causes carpal tunnel syndrome. And this occurs by passing through a narrow tunnel in your wrist. It acts as a pulley for the tendons in your hand, and without it, your fingers cannot bend. The position your fingers are in when using devices is unnatural. Repetition causes tendon excursion and excessive muscle use.
In the same way that your wrists and hands become damaged, so can the spine. Your head is heavier than you may think. And hunching over to look at screens can strain the neck, resulting in the spine’s misalignment. As you can see, there seem to be several dangers to using phones and tablets.
Prolonged use of smart devices causes significant wrist pain. However, for reduced risks, take breaks often from your smart devices. Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor phone and device use, especially with children.
Put the Phone Away at Night
Using the phone at night has additional dangers. The blue light from the screen is dangerous for your eyes, and it simulates day time. So, your eyes don’t realize it’s time to unwind for the night. And that interferes with getting a good night’s sleep. Phone use at night is also linked to a higher risk of depression in teens.
Parents should set digital curfews. After extended periods, phones and tablets are to be stored away. Take the opportunity to educate your children about the dangers of smart devices. When everyone is on the same page, phone use will not be as painful!
Are you experiencing wrist pain from your smart devices? Our top hand surgeon can help diagnose and treat wrist pain! Call 888-409-8006.
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