For starters, heavy phone use can cause pain and discomfort. One of the main complaints is tendinitis due to repetitive thumb movements while typing. Additionally, these movements can cause inflammation of the tendons, leading to De Quervain syndrome. According to a study published in the Journal of Orthopedic Research (2019), excessive smartphone use can cause wrist and thumb pain.
In addition, prolonged positioning of the hands and fingers, often in unnatural postures, can cause joint pain. The small muscles of the hand, used continuously, can also suffer from fatigue. This muscle fatigue can manifest itself as cramps or even spasms. A study from Harvard University (2017) showed that prolonged, non-ergonomic postures can cause joint and muscle pain.
Additionally, it is crucial to consider the neurological impact. Indeed, prolonged use of the phone can affect the nerves in the hands. Carpal tunnel syndrome, for example, occurs when the median nerve is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers. A study published in Muscle & Nerve (2018) found that heavy smartphone use can cause pain and tingling linked to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Finally, the psychological impact should not be neglected. Excessive phone use can not only physically affect the hands, but also cause psychological dependence. This addiction amplifies the risk of physical injury as users struggle to limit their screen time. According to an article published in the Journal of behavioral addictions (2016), smartphone addiction is linked to mental health problems, increasing the risk of injuries from overuse.
Therefore, it is essential to adopt healthy practices to prevent these inconveniences. Among other things, you need to take regular breaks, perform stretching exercises for your hands and fingers and use ergonomic accessories. These are in fact essential measures to preserve the health of our hands.
In short, excessive phone use can have serious repercussions on the hands. By becoming aware of these risks and adopting healthier habits, it will be possible to protect hands while continuing to enjoy technology.
