By Celeste McLaughlin, Ergonomics Manager
Solutions Northwest, Inc. – Arcata, California
What is “Text Claw”?
It is difficult to avoid the over use of a smartphone or mobile device in this modern world. The hand, wrist, and thumb pain one feels from prolonged texting or browsing on their device is often referred to as “text claw.”
Many people send over 100 text messages a day via their cell phones according to Pew Research Center.
According to Medical Daily, “tendonitis (stemming from text claw) is the breakdown of soft tissue surrounding the muscle and bones, and it is often very tender to touch. When you are excessively using your iPad, iPhone, or other hand-held device it’s important to rule out carpal tunnel syndrome by seeing your primary care physician or rheumatologist. If you start feeling a pain in your wrists from texting too much, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate that pain.”
Ergonomics Tips to Reduce Your Risk:
- Use the speech to text feature when possible rather than typing.
- When possible, place the phone on a stand rather than holding it. There are many styles of stands designed for different types of phones.
- Rest does wonders, always look to the I.C.E. Techniques (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for pain relief.
- Try some wrist exercises to relieve any pain.
For more guidance on all things Ergonomics, visit SolutionsNW.com or Contact Us for more information.
