Can Texting Cause Arthritis? The Truth Behind the Myth

As our dependence on cell phones and other handheld devices increases, so does the worry about the potential harm caused by excessive use.

One of the most popular concerns is whether texting can cause arthritis. While there are many myths and rumors about this topic, the truth is fairly straightforward. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the relationship between texting and arthritis and see if there’s any reason for concern.

First, let’s talk about what arthritis is.

Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints in your body, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. There are many different types of arthritis, and it can develop for a variety of reasons, such as old age, injury, or inflammation.

However, there is no evidence to suggest that texting or using handheld devices can cause arthritis directly. While repetitive movements can cause strain and discomfort in your hands and fingers, they are not likely to lead to arthritis.

That being said, there is a condition called “texting thumb” that can develop from frequent device use. Texting thumb is a type of repetitive strain injury that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the thumb and wrist. This condition is more likely to develop in people who text frequently, especially if they use a device with small buttons or a touchscreen. However, the symptoms of texting thumb are not the same as those of arthritis, and the condition is treatable with rest and physical therapy.

Another type of injury that may occur from texting is strain to the neck and shoulders.

Posture is impacted by cell phone use, as evidenced in several studies which show that holding your device can lead to strain in the cervical spine and shoulder areas. However, this is generally a musculoskeletal issue, and does not appear to be a factor towards developing arthritis.

It’s important to note that using cell phones and other handheld devices isn’t the only activity that can cause repetitive strain injuries.

Anything that involves repetitive movements, such as playing an instrument, typing, or professions that require repetitive motion can lead to discomfort or pain in your hands and fingers. The key is to take regular breaks, stretch your hands and fingers, and avoid putting too much strain on any particular joint or muscle.

So, can texting cause arthritis? The short answer is no.

While texting and using handheld devices can lead to repetitive strain injuries, these conditions are not the same as arthritis, and can be treated with rest and physical therapy. As with any activity, it’s important to take breaks and avoid excessive strain on your hands and fingers. By using your devices responsibly and taking care of your body with diet and exercise, you can enjoy the convenience of modern technology without worrying about causing harm.

The team at Healthpointe is highly skilled and experienced in evaluating your specific injuries. You can schedule an appointment with us by filling out this form on our website. We also now offer texting services! Give us a call or text to schedule an appointment today at (714) 367-5390.

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization. We offer a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California. We have locations in over ten cities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.