JOIN USIn the last decade, smartphones have replaced desktops and laptops to a large extent. While people are absorbed in trying out the various new features, they do not think about the negative consequences that they might have to face with such increased usage.
People are bound to get addicted to their phones, having to check mails and messages at regular intervals. Texting on the keyboard of any smartphone is easier with the thumb. Therefore, people, unknowingly, apply pressure and cause the tendons at the base of the thumb, which is attached to the palm, to be stressed.
When the pressure increases, one may feel pain and have uneasy movement of the thumb and wrist. This causes injuries of the muscles and bones called tendonitis. One may notice symptoms such as irritation and swelling, caused by the inflammation of the affected part - the thumb or the wrist. The thumb’s ability of gripping reduces drastically, making it extremely painful, and there is difficulty in lifting things.
Tendonitis may be treated with medicines and surgery. Ignoring the symptoms may lead to serious and grave injuries to the thumb. Consulting a qualified doctor is necessary at that stage because, if not provided with treatment on time, there might be a permanent damage to the affected region. The movement of the thumb and the wrist might stop completely, and may need to be rectified through surgery.
Ways to avoid tendonitis:
The best preventive measure would be to lay off the excessive usage of smartphones.
Instead of typing out an e-mail on the smartphone, try to use a laptop or desktop.
Avoid using the thumb to type; use all fingers, even if it means typing at a slower pace.
(The author is consultant, arthroscopy & sports medicine, Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru)