Beware! Spending unchecked time on electronic gadgets can result in carpal tunnel syndrome!

With the increase in the time spent on electronic gadgets, the risk of suffering carpal tunnel syndrome is on the rise. 

This is because we use our fingers to scroll down pages or send messages on gadgets. As we use our fingers more, the nerve that connects the fingers gets compressed, thereby creating a sort of numbness in the fingers. 

Though it can affect all the fingers, it is the thumb that is a sitting duck. It is interesting to note that though the syndrome sets in, the sufferer doesn’t immediately know its onset. Gradually, as the syndrome spreads, all the fingers become susceptible and suffer numbness. 

A doctor explains, “Earlier, carpal tunnel syndrome was common in people who were in their 60s and 70s. Those who suffered from diabetes also suffered from this. But now, people who are in their 30s and 40s are suffering. This is due to spending a lot of time on electronic gadgets.”  

Digital detoxification 

Onset of such syndromes only underlines the fact that we need to practice digital detoxification. It is imperative we spend some time away from electronic gadgets, thereby increasing our physical activities and indulging ourselves in activities other than electronics in nature.