The Surprising Side Effects from Using Technology

As you’ve become proficient in texting, emailing, and web surfing on your smartphone and computer, you may have unknowingly encountered an unexpected side effect. Dr. Tamara Rozental, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow disorders at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, notes that there is an increasing number of patients developing injuries from these activities.

Hand pain

The repetitive actions involved in texting and typing can contribute to generalized hand pain resulting from underlying osteoarthritis, characterized by the degeneration of cartilage in the joints. While the use of digital devices itself does not directly cause osteoarthritis, individuals predisposed to this condition may experience an exacerbation of symptoms due to these repetitive motions, as noted by Dr. Tamara Rozental, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow disorders at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

Furthermore, excessive use of the thumbs for texting can lead to strain or overuse injuries affecting the tendons running from the wrist to the thumb, a condition known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. This condition is marked by symptoms such as pain over the thumb side of the wrist, which may develop gradually or suddenly and extend up the forearm.

Pressing buttons too forcefully with the fingers may induce inflammation around the tendons and pulleys responsible for finger movement, increasing the likelihood of trigger finger or stenosing tenosynovitis. Symptoms of trigger finger include pain, audible popping sounds, and a sensation of the digit locking during bending or straightening movements. It is crucial to be aware of these potential issues and adopt preventive measures to minimize the impact of repetitive hand movements associated with modern technological activities.

Hand numbness and tingling

While typing on a laptop or desktop keyboard doesn’t directly cause carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition marked by the compression of the median nerve as it traverses the carpal tunnel in the wrist, it can potentially exacerbate symptoms associated with the condition. According to Dr. Tamara Rozental, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow disorders at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the repetitive motions involved in typing may bring forth symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness in specific areas such as the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and inner half of the ring finger.

Furthermore, Dr. Rozental points out that excessive leaning on the elbows could potentially worsen cubital tunnel syndrome, a condition characterized by compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel near the elbow. Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome may manifest as pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the ring or little finger. It’s essential to be mindful of these potential issues and take preventive measures to mitigate the impact of repetitive hand and arm movements associated with modern digital activities.

Neck and back pain

Prolonged use of electronic gadgets, particularly when looking down for extended periods, can contribute to the development of neck and back pain. Dr. Andrew White, an orthopedic surgeon and co-director at the Spine Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, points out that this posture stretches the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck and upper back. The key factors contributing to discomfort are the posture adopted and the duration of time spent in that position.

While Dr. White emphasizes that this type of pain is typically temporary and unlikely to result in permanent back or neck problems, it can still be uncomfortable. Additionally, the repetitive strain from prolonged gadget use may irritate the occipital nerve where the spine connects to the base of the skull, potentially leading to headaches. It’s essential to be mindful of one’s posture and take breaks to alleviate the strain imposed on the neck and back during gadget use.

Hand and wrist fixes

Treatment options for hand or wrist conditions caused by electronic gadget use include several approaches. These may involve taking breaks from the repetitive activity, utilizing splints, short-term use of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), performing exercises to stretch the tendons, and occasionally receiving steroid injections.

In addition to these treatments, modifying the way electronic devices are used is crucial. For instance, if texting with the thumbs is causing discomfort, switching to other fingers or using a stylus may be beneficial. Dr. Tamara Rozental recommends adapting to hand conditions by using voice commands or opting for a wider stylus to reduce stress on the thumb joint, especially in cases of hand deformity or pain.

To alleviate carpal tunnel pain, optimizing the workstation setup is essential. This involves ensuring that forearms are parallel to the floor, wrists are straight and aligned with forearms, and elbows are relaxed with a 90-degree angle at the waist. Dr. Rozental suggests using a vertical mouse, as it places the hand in a less stressful position, and positioning the mouse in front rather than to the side. These adjustments aim to minimize strain on the hands and wrists during gadget use.

Back and neck fixes

To alleviate back and neck pain associated with device use, Dr. Andrew White recommends adjusting your posture. Keeping your gaze parallel to the floor instead of looking downward is crucial. For computer use, it’s beneficial to raise the monitor to eye level, and for handheld devices, propping them on a few pillows can help achieve a more comfortable position.

In addition, taking frequent breaks and paying attention to discomfort are essential practices. Dr. White suggests adjusting your position if you feel stiffness in your neck. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of preventing pain by engaging in exercises that strengthen core muscles, which play a crucial role in supporting the spine.

Dr. White notes that maintaining physical fitness has been shown to reduce the likelihood of developing neck or back pain. Therefore, incorporating exercises that target core muscles can be a proactive measure to support spine health and minimize discomfort associated with device usage.