Texting Thumb

The Rise of Texting

Managing Thumb Pain from Smartphone Overuse

Most Americans own a smart phone and cell phone usage is growing every day. Physicians report that the number of cases that involve pain and swelling in people’s thumbs is also rising. Texting thumb is not a clearly defined condition. Instead, it is a classification for two other finger conditions called trigger finger and de Quervain’s tenosynovitis typically caused by texting.

Exploring Trigger Finger and de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Trigger finger is a feeling of locking when bending and straightening your finger. It can affect any finger or even more than one finger simultaneously. Trigger finger is caused by inflammation of the sheath that protects the tendons in the fingers. Risk factors for trigger finger include diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Females and those who have had carpal tunnel syndrome surgery are also more likely to develop trigger finger. Trigger finger symptoms include pain, popping or clicking when moving fingers, locking in bent position, or a bump at the base of the thumb.

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition that occurs when tendons at the base of the thumb are swollen. It most commonly affects females between the age of 30-50. Pregnancy also increases the risk of developing de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Symptoms include pain or swelling at the base of the thumb, difficulty pinching or grasping objects and sticking when trying to move the thumb. In post-partum women, lifting and holding babies and toddlers becomes very painful.

From Rest and Bracing to Acupuncture

Combine Traditional and Alternative Therapies for Trigger Finger and de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Both conditions can be diagnosed by a physician. Suggested treatment methods include rest, ice, anti-inflammatories, stretching, using a hand brace, cortisone injections or surgery as a last resort. Because the goal of treating both conditions is to reduce pain and inflammation, acupuncture can be a very effective treatment and can safely be used in conjunction with more conventional treatment options. Acupuncture lowers inflammation and swelling, effectively reducing the pain, stiffness and swelling associated with both trigger finger and de Quervain’s tenosynovitis.