In today's digital age, smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. However, recent studies suggest that excessive smartphone usage may be linked to numbness or tingling sensations in the fingers, signalling potential health concerns. Ethan Bennet, founder of Sonin , said that beyond physical discomfort, prolonged phone use can contribute to repetitive strain injuries and nerve compression.
And he said habitual phone use can exacerbate existing musculoskeletal issues, such as neck and back pain, while also impacting mental well-being through increased stress and disrupted sleep patterns. Ethan said identifying the indications of smartphone-induced nerve damage is crucial for early intervention and prevention of long-term complications. Symptoms such as numbness or tingling in the fingers, weakness in the hand, and difficulty gripping objects may indicate underlying conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Additionally, you may experience aching or cramping in the fingers and hand muscles, neck pain and stiffness, often referred to as ‘text neck’, and decreased sensation in the fingers and hands. Ethan said: "Knowing when to seek medical attention for symptoms of smartphone-induced nerve damage is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. Persistent symptoms warrant immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional because they may indicate carpal tunnel syndrome.
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to irreversib.
