Using a smartphone can easily lead to health problems, especially due to incorrect strain on muscles, joints and ligaments. Typical complaints such as smartphone fingers or texting neck are possible consequences, but numerous other health problems can also arise.
When using a smartphone, it doesn't take long for muscles, joints and ligaments to become overstretched and overloaded, explains Dr. Dominic King of the Cleveland Clinic (USA). It is not even necessary to sit in front of the smartphone for hours on end; normal daily use can already lead to problems.
Smartphone-related illnesses are increasing
So-called smartphone fingers or text neck syndrome or SMS neck arise because those affected adopt a completely unnatural posture when using their smartphone, explains the expert.
The little finger becomes the so-called smartphone finger if it is constantly used to hold the smartphone. The weight of the device can press on a nerve in the little finger, leading to numbness and tingling. It is even possible that a small notch can form in the finger.
Text neck syndrome occurs when the neck is put under a lot of strain by constantly looking at the cell phone. Tension, muscle pain and cramps are possible consequences.
Consequences of wrong posture
The negative effects of smartphone use on health are also highlighted by a study whose results were published in the journal “Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation”.
This research examined 237 people who had been using a smartphone regularly for more than five years. The study showed, for example, that people who used their smartphone while lying on their stomachs reported pain in their upper arm more often than people who used their smartphone in another position.
When the smartphone was generally used in a side or prone position, participants reported a higher level of lower back pain compared to when using it in a sitting position, the researchers report.
Shoulder pain was particularly severe in participants who had a strongly hunched neck posture, and smartphone use was also associated with pain in the wrist and fingers (especially the thumb).
Hold the smartphone horizontally with both hands
The experts involved in the study emphasize that the frequency and intensity of pain was lowest in participants who held their smartphone horizontally with both hands.
In contrast, holding the smartphone in one hand with the support of the little finger is associated with the most frequent and severe pain in all areas of the hand.
Prevent health problems
To prevent health problems, Dr. King says it is important to take regular breaks from smartphone use.
“Every 20 minutes, you should take 20 seconds to look at something that is half a meter away. This brings your eyes to the horizon, your neck and shoulders back, and gives you a little break from technology,” the doctor explains in a recent press release.
When using the smartphone, it is important to remember that the device should ideally be held with both hands. A special grip on the back of the smartphone can also help to hold it better in the hand. The most important points, however, remain a healthy posture and regular breaks. (as)