Is this you, do your thumbs hurt when you send texts? Are you in pain when you are sending text messages? Then you may be suffering from texting thumb, which is scientifically known as De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. Texting thumb is caused by the repetitive motion of the thumbs going up and down while creating a text. This motion puts pressure on the two tendons in the wrist, causing them to swell and become inflamed. The inflammation of those two tendons is what causes pain and discomfort. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is common in people who play racket sports, golf, and any other hobbies that involve repetitive motions. In fact, De Quervain’s is the second most common ailment that we suffer for wrist or thumb conditions, behind the trigger finger. The great news is that it is not permanent; as long as your texting thumb is treated, you can fully recover. The most obvious treatment for De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is to stop the repetitive motion that is causing the problem. Using a splint or brace to help prevent the movement is recommended. In extreme cases, a doctor may recommend surgery, followed by physiotherapy to treat texting thumb. As long as De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is addressed, a full recovery is a usual outcome. If not treated, then the symptoms will worsen, which can result in irreversible damage. Don’t be disheartened if your thumbs are hurting when sending text messages. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is not uncommon with over 200,000 cases in the United States every year. It is caused not only by texting but any repetitive motion that involves the thumbs if done on a regular basis. If you still need to send your text messages, how’s about using voice recognition instead of tapping away with your thumbs.
