These days, much of our communication is done through texting via smartphones. Anywhere you look, you can see people with their thumbs flying over their phones as they chat, shop, check the news, and manage other aspects of their daily lives. With our thumbs getting such a workout, it’s no wonder that we have seen an increase in patients complaining of thumb pain. At the Institute of Hand Surgery at Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, our doctors realize that “texting thumb” has become a common modern-day malady. We can treat texting thumb, but first we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you avoid it.
What is Texting Thumb?
“Texting thumb” is a modern name for an age-old condition most commonly referred to as “trigger finger”. Formally known as stenosing tenosynovitis, this is a result of inflammation or thickening of the flexor tendon of the thumb. When the thumb moves, the flexor tendon passes through pulleys, or bands of tissue that hold it in place.
Repetitive motion, like frequent texting, can cause the pulley to become thickened or inflamed. This makes it more difficult for the tendon to glide, resulting in symptoms like:
- A bump or nodule on the palm side at the base of the thumb
- Swelling
- Pain when the thumb is straightened
- A feeling of popping, catching, or locking when the thumb is moved
- The thumb locking in a bent position
How Can I Avoid Texting Thumb?
Using your thumb to text on your smartphone or to play video games may feel like an automatic motion, and this can make it difficult to change. However, the best way to avoid texting thumb is to give your thumbs a break by switching the hand you use to operate your phone or using your fingers to text instead of your thumbs. You can also try using a voice dictation feature and avoid typing entirely.
If you begin to experience fatigue or symptoms of texting thumb, try a few simple stretching exercises. A good one is the hand flip:
- Sit down and place your forearm, palm-side down, on your thigh
- Flip your hand so the palm faces up, keeping your forearm on your thigh.
- Do this 10 times, on both hands if you are a two-thumbed texter
Contact the Institute for Hand Surgery at LIPSG
At the Institute for Hand Surgery at LIPSG, our physicians are dedicated to providing patients with effective treatment options for both common and rare hand injuries. If you are struggling with symptoms of texting thumb, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a LIPSG hand specialist.
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