Smartphone-Related Hand Conditions

Smartphones are one of the most revolutionary technological innovations of our time. They are integral to modern life, allowing us to communicate, work, navigate, and access information anytime and anywhere.

There are around 6.84 billion smartphones globally, nearly one for every person on Earth. While these devices offer unprecedented convenience and connectivity, they also come with hidden costs, particularly when it comes to the hands and wrists.

With prolonged and repetitive use—especially for texting, scrolling, and gaming—more people are developing smartphone-related hand conditions. Explore some of these common conditions and how to prevent and manage them.

Common Hand and Wrist Conditions

Asian man holding phone

Trigger Finger

A trigger finger is when a finger gets stuck in a bent position and snaps straight with a jerking motion. The root of the problem lies in the tendon, which normally glides smoothly within a protective sheath. If the sheath becomes inflamed or a small lump forms on the tendon itself, the movement becomes restricted.

Trigger finger can affect multiple fingers and both hands. Symptoms include the following:

  • Stiffness in the affected finger
  • A popping or clicking feeling as the finger moves
  • Tenderness or a noticeable bump at the base of the finger
  • Sudden locking or catching of the finger in a bent position
  • Locking of the finger in a bent position that may need manual straightening

Texting Thumb

Texting thumb, while not a formally recognized medical diagnosis, is a commonly used term for pain or dysfunction in the thumb due to overuse. It often refers to either trigger thumb or de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. With a trigger thumb, you may observe the following:

  • Clicking or popping when moving your thumb
  • Your thumb catching or locking in a bent position
  • Difficulty when bending or straightening your thumb
  • Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
  • Tenderness or a noticeable bump at the base of your thumb

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most recognized hand and wrist conditions, and it occurs when the median nerve in a narrow passage in the wrist becomes compressed or irritated. The median nerve is what controls movement and sensation in parts of the hand. Pressure on this nerve can disrupt normal nerve function, resulting in the following:

  • Numbness or tingling in the index and middle fingers or thumb
  • Pain in the wrist or hand, usually extending up the arm
  • Difficulty gripping objects
  • A sensation of swelling in the affected fingers even without actual swelling

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Less well-known but equally troublesome, cubital tunnel syndrome targets the ulnar nerve as it passes through the inside of the elbow. This nerve extends from the neck to the hand and helps control fine motor movements and sensation in the ring and pinky fingers. Pressure on it can cause symptoms such as:

  • Numbness or tingling in the pinky and ring fingers
  • Intermittent pain on the inside of the elbow
  • Weakness or clumsiness in the hand
  • Difficulty moving fingers when numb or tingling, especially after prolonged elbow bending

Tendinosis

Tendinosis is a chronic, degenerative condition of the tendons that happens when a tendon breaks down due to overuse and microscopic damage. Unlike tendonitis, which involves inflammation, tendinosis leads to the weakening and stiffening of the tendon over time.

Tendons are thick cords of collagen that connect muscles to bones. With tendinosis, collagen fibers become disorganized, and abnormal cells fill the damaged areas, making the tendon less elastic and more prone to injury.

When you have tendinosis, you experience the following discomforts:

  • Persistent burning pain during activity
  • Reduced range of motion in the affected area
  • Stiffness, especially after rest
  • Weakness when performing regular tasks
  • Chronic pain that lasts longer than three months

Prevention and Treatment Options

Preventing smartphone-related hand conditions is possible. For instance, you can hold your device loosely instead of gripping it tightly for long periods. Alternating hands or using a holder when watching videos or reading is also a good idea. Generally, one must take regular breaks from using smartphones.

Do hand and wrist exercises daily to maintain flexibility and strength. A physical or occupational therapist can teach stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy techniques. Should there be pain and swelling involved, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may work.

For persistent or severe symptoms, always seek a professional medical evaluation and treatment.

Choose OrthoUnited for Specialized Hand and Wrist Care

Smartphones have transformed our lives, but overuse can impact the body. Conditions like trigger finger, texting thumb, carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, and tendinosis are becoming more common as we become more reliant on mobile devices. Fortunately, with prevention strategies, habit changes, and expert care, you can stay connected comfortably.

At OrthoUnited, we have a team of orthopedic specialists who provide a full spectrum of nonsurgical and surgical treatments for hands and wrists. We do advanced diagnostics, therapy, injections, and minimally-invasive procedures, helping relieve pain and restore function. Schedule an appointment online today (with our new online scheduling tool!), and let us work together toward lasting relief.