What is an “iPhone finger” and how dangerous is it?

However, the alleged birth of the dent, also known by other names such as “smartphone pinky,” was dismissed by experts.

In other words, don’t expect this to take people back to the flip phone days.

“Most of these images are [of indents or gaps] Don’t emphasize the problem. These show typical pinky anatomy, which can vary widely,” said Dr. Peter Evans, an orthopedic surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic.

Occupational therapist April Hiberer and AltCarolina hand surgeon Dr. Michael Geary agree.

In its explanation of “musculoskeletal ‘phenomena’,” it added that there is no official diagnosis of “iPhone finger.”

“People who think they have a smartphone pinky may also have an underlying medical condition,” Evans added. “Continuous cell phone use can cause a variety of problems to your joints. While some injury claims are exaggerated, others are real and can cause serious long-term damage. There are some things that come with it.”

These include clinodactyly, a genetic finger malformation in which the tip of the little finger is bent near the ring finger, he warned.

There is also Dupuytren’s contracture, where a thick cord forms under the skin over many years and causes the fingers to approach the palm.

Evans stressed that there is no indication that smartphone use is causing the latter. However, he warns that there are some medical conditions that can be associated with the phone.

Beware of text-related injuries

While the smartphone pinky finger appears to have been proven to be a mistake, surgeons say “smartphone elbow” (medically known as cubital tunnel syndrome) is very real.

This occurs in people who bend their elbows beyond 90 degrees for long periods of time, and commonly in people who write text messages.

“Tingling or numbness in your little finger may also indicate symptoms that are known to cause nerve damage.”

rejection

Additionally, Evans says you should watch out for the dreaded “texting thumb,” or neck.

“Thumb joints aren’t designed to be texting and swiping all day long,” he says.

“Overuse can worsen underlying conditions such as arthritis or cause new problems with the thumb tendon.”

Notice the slope

As for the neck, Evans noted that “your head weighs about 10 to 12 pounds,” so be careful when looking down at your phone.

“Looking down puts more strain on your neck muscles. This added pressure can lead to muscle pain and spasms.”

Hiberer and Geary also advise that smartphone use can worsen spring finger and carpal tunnel syndrome.