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MOBILE PHONES-ORTHOPAEDICS



Mobile Phones & Orthopaedic Problems: An Overview.

The usage of mobile devices in today's professional environment, while offering undeniable advantages in communication and accessibility, presents potential challenges to musculoskeletal health. This article outlines the common musculoskeletal risks associated with excessive mobile device use and provides actionable strategies for users to mitigate these risks and maintain optimal well-being.

Understanding the Risks:

Prolonged and improper mobile device use can contribute to various musculoskeletal issues, including:

  • Cervical strain ("text neck"): Sustained forward neck flexion during device use strains the neck muscles and ligaments, leading to pain, stiffness, and headaches.
  • Cubital tunnel syndrome: Holding the phone with a bent elbow for extended periods compresses the ulnar nerve, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and pinky fingers.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome: Repetitive motions like texting can exacerbate existing carpal tunnel symptoms or contribute to its development, characterized by pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist.
  • Smartphone hand pain: Overusing thumbs and fingers for gaming or texting strains tendons and muscles, leading to pain and stiffness.( Checkout article on Whatsappitis in this blog)

Addressing the Root Causes:

Several factors contribute to these musculoskeletal risks:

  • Poor posture: Slouching and forward bending place undue stress on the neck, back, and shoulders.
  • Repetitive strain: Constant thumb movements and gripping the phone strain tendons and nerves.
  • Excessive screen time: Magnifies the impact of poor posture and repetitive strain, increasing risk.

Strategies for Optimal Musculoskeletal Health:

  • Maintain neutral posture: Keep your neck aligned with your spine, avoid slouching, and utilize ergonomic stands or holders to position the screen at eye level.
  • Implement micro-breaks: Set regular reminders to put down your phone, stretch your neck and hands, and move around briefly to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
  • Embrace voice technology: Utilize voice commands and dictation features whenever possible to reduce reliance on manual typing and swiping.
  • Invest in ergonomic accessories: Consider phone grips, stands, and styluses designed for better hand and wrist positions, minimizing strain and discomfort.
  • Strengthening exercises: Regularly perform hand and forearm strengthening exercises to improve their resilience to repetitive strain and fatigue.

Seeking Professional Support:

If you experience persistent pain, numbness, or weakness related to mobile device use, consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention through a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment can help prevent further complications and ensure optimal musculoskeletal health.

By adopting these proactive strategies, professionals can harness the power of mobile devices while safeguarding their long-term musculoskeletal well-being and maintaining peak performance. Remember, mindfulness and a commitment to healthy habits are key to achieving a balanced and pain-free digital lifestyle.

Dr. Naveen Chowdary Tummala,

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

9094567893 &:9094567894

Click here: Directions & Details


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