Causes of wrist pain...CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
As digital technology becomes an irreplaceable part of our lives, exposure to devices such as smartphones, computers, tablets etc starts from an early age now…CONTINUE READING>>>
Though being tech savvy or familiar with the latest updates on social media may earn you a slight edge over your peers, you may soon start complaining of severe physical repercussions from excessive device usage. One of the prevalent issues among young Indians is wrist pain , often attributed to continuous scrolling on mobile phones.
Dr. Gautam Tawari, Knee, Shoulder, Elbow and Hand Surgeon, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital says, “The wrist consists of eight small bones, known as carpal bones, connected by ligaments. Continuous and repetitive motion, like that of scrolling on a phone, can strain these ligaments, leading to pain and discomfort.
When the wrist is subjected to persistent stress, conditions such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can manifest. Both conditions result from prolonged repetitive motion, with CTS specifically involving pressure on the median nerve passing through the carpal tunnel in the wrist.”
Various studies have shown a direct correlation between prolonged mobile phone usage and wrist pain. Excessive smartphone use is now conclusively associated with hand pain, reduced grip strength, and thumb discomfort. The frequent flexion and extension of the wrist during scrolling were identified as contributing factors.
Symptoms of wrist pain due to smartphone overuse
Identifying the early signs of wrist pain related to excessive phone use can help in timely intervention. Symptoms often start as a dull ache in the wrist, progressing to sharp pains during specific movements.
Some individuals may also experience tingling or numbness in the fingers, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, indicative of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Other symptoms include stiffness in the wrist upon waking up, decreased grip strength, and a sensation of warmth or swelling in the wrist area.
It’s essential to identify these symptoms in time and consult an expert orthopaedic, who specialises in wrist conditions. Ignoring these signs can lead to chronic conditions which might require invasive treatments or surgeries.
Prevention and management
Avoiding the risk of developing wrist pain is possible but involves a lot of changes in your daily practices, lifestyle and ergonomics.
1. Regular breaks: Ensure you take short breaks every 20-30 minutes from phone activities to relax the wrist.
2. Proper holding technique: Hold the phone with both hands to distribute the stress and minimise wrist flexion.
3. Wrist exercises: Simple exercises like wrist rotations and stretches can help strengthen the wrist and prevent injury.
The risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If these techniques do not work, or one develops Carpal Tunnel Syndrome despite the preventive measures, then one should consult a wrist specialist or hand surgeon.
Advanced techniques such as Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release, can address the issue of nerve under compression and permanent damage to the nerve, in a suture-less procedure, with a scar smaller than 1cm.
By being aware of the potential risks and taking preventive measures, individuals can enjoy technology while minimising its adverse effects on their wrists…CONTINUE READING>>>
