Hands on Overload: The Dangers of Repetitive Smartphone Use and How to Avoid Them

Prolonged smartphone use with repetitive movements can lead to pain and damage in the thumb, little finger, wrist joint, and even bone and joint problems. Dr. Huynh Hoang Anh from the Department of Rehabilitation at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City advises that positions such as bending the wrist, using the little finger as support, and gliding with the thumb while using smartphones can cause bone and joint problems in the hands.

The thumb is particularly affected by repetitive movements such as scrolling and texting, which can lead to fatigue and tendon damage. This can result in pain when bending or stretching the fingers, stiffness, trigger finger, a condition where the tendon sheath becomes inflamed. Similarly, using the little finger as a support while holding the phone can strain ligaments in the hand, leading to numbness, pain stiffness and joint sounds when moving fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome may also occur from bent wrists while holding phones for extended periods, resulting in numbness tingling and pain in fingers.

To prevent these issues from occurring or worsening patients should take preventive measures such as limiting continuous phone use or holding it with both hands to avoid strain on one hand. Additionally they should avoid using smaller buttons or texting on a smartwatch to minimize pressure on their fingers and wrists. If any unusual symptoms appear it is recommended to rest limit finger movements take pain relievers if needed consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.