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WHATSAPPITIS. Orthopaedic Problem or Something Else?

Well some of th seniors looking at today's generation that's texting always must be thinking that WHATSAPPITIS is a Social Problem. But officially it is an Orthopaedic Problem only.

It is caused by increased use of the thumb for typing and also aided by the XL & Max sized phones that come sometimes with 8 inch screens.
So this is a detailed note on the condition that describes it and also advises you on how to avoid it as well as treat it

WhatsAppitis: A Comprehensive Review

WhatsAppitis is a type of repetitive strain injury (RSI) that is caused by overuse of smartphones, particularly by excessive use of the WhatsApp messaging app. It is characterized by pain, inflammation, and decreased range of motion in the thumb and wrist. WhatsAppitis is most common in people who use their smartphones for extended periods of time, such as for texting, messaging, and gaming.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors

The prevalence of WhatsAppitis is increasing due to the widespread use of smartphones and the popularity of WhatsApp. A study published in the Journal of Hand Surgery showed that the prevalence of WhatsAppitis among smartphone users was 12.7%. The study also found that WhatsAppitis was more common in women and in people who used their smartphones for more than two hours per day.

Other risk factors for WhatsAppitis include:

  • Age: WhatsAppitis is more common in younger adults.
  • Occupation: People who work in jobs that require repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as computer operators and assembly line workers, are at increased risk for WhatsAppitis.
  • Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, can increase the risk of WhatsAppitis.
  • Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing WhatsAppitis.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of WhatsAppitis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by repetitive microtrauma to the tendons, muscles, and ligaments in the thumb and wrist. This microtrauma can lead to inflammation, pain, and decreased range of motion.

Clinical Presentation

The most common clinical presentation of WhatsAppitis is pain and inflammation in the thumb and wrist. The pain may be dull or sharp, and it may be aggravated by activities such as texting, messaging, and gaming. The inflammation may cause swelling and redness in the thumb and wrist. In some cases, there may also be decreased range of motion and weakness in the thumb and wrist.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of WhatsAppitis is based on the patient's clinical presentation and history of smartphone use. Physical examination may reveal tenderness and swelling in the thumb and wrist. In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI may be necessary to rule out other causes of the patient's symptoms.

Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis of WhatsAppitis includes other causes of thumb and wrist pain, such as:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • De Quervain's tenosynovitis
  • Trigger finger
  • Arthritis
  • Fractures

Treatment

The treatment of WhatsAppitis is aimed at reducing inflammation and pain, and improving range of motion. Treatment options may include:

  • Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain, such as texting, messaging, and gaming.
  • Ice: Applying ice to the thumb and wrist for 20 minutes at a time, several times per day.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Taking over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and strength in the thumb and wrist.
  • Corticosteroid injections: In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.

Prevention

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent WhatsAppitis, including:

  • Take breaks when using a smartphone: Avoid using a smartphone for more than 30 minutes at a time without taking a break.
  • Use both hands when texting or gaming: This will help to distribute the strain across both thumbs and wrists.
  • Hold the smartphone in a neutral position: Avoid bending the wrist or thumb at an extreme angle.
  • Use voice typing or dictation features whenever possible.
  • Strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists: There are a number of exercises that can be done to strengthen these muscles, such as hand squeezes and wrist curls.

Complications

If left untreated, WhatsAppitis can lead to chronic pain and disability. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tendons or ligaments.

Conclusion

WhatsAppitis is a common and preventable condition. By taking breaks when using a smartphone, using both hands when texting or gaming, holding the smartphone in a neutral position, and using voice typing or dictation features whenever possible, you can help to prevent WhatsAppitis.

SCOT: Dr. Naveen's Bone and Joint Clinic, Sholinganallur

9094567894 , 9094567893

www.scotortho.com

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