Recently a new condition has been described nicknamed Texter’s neck. The angle people hold their head to look at the mobile phone screen puts 60lbs/27kg pressure on the neck. This is the equivalent to 4 stone or a 7 year old child sitting on your shoulders. Researchers show that there is no difference whether you are typing or reading.
There has also been an increase in the incidence of headaches. 40% people complain of at least one headache per week. There is also a 60% rise in symptoms reported in 16-24 year olds and an increase in carpal tunnel syndrome- pins and needles in the fingers, all linked to increased usage of tablets and smart phones.
Another condition called cubital fossa syndrome affects the ulnar nerve as it runs round the inner aspect of the elbow. Inflammation here from holding the elbow bent to eg hold a phone to your ear, can lead to pain, tingling or numbness of the little and ring fingers. This condition is nicknamed Mobile-phone Elbow.
Some people are complaining of pain in the tendons of the thumb from texting. Medically this is known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Sometimes there is local redness and swelling. Research has shown that gaming reduces pain perception so if you are spending prolonged periods of time playing Candy Crush you may cause pain and injury.
All of these problems can be diagnosed and treated by a Chartered Physiotherapist. The best advice is to change your position and stretch regularly. Perform some simple exercises such as shrugging your shoulders, reaching up over your head, turning your head from side to side (but never roll your neck in circles) to relieve tension. Try to swap hands and ears, use hands free and voice control where possible.
A Chartered Physiotherapist can give you more specific advice depending on your situation and treat any pains/ injuries that you already have. Most importantly she can prevent them from becoming chronic and recurrent. To see a Physiotherapist privately you do not have to be referred by your Doctor.