The effect of smartphone usage on the median nerve

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the effects of smartphone use on the median nerve.

Materials and Methods: Participants were classified into three groups according to their smartphone use frequencies; high smartphone users (with Smartphone addiction scale (SAS) score of higher than 71), low smartphone users (SAS score less than 71) and classical type mobile phones users. The Visual analogue scale (VAS), quick-disabilities of arm, shoulder, hand (qDASH) and median nerve conductions of the participants were assessed. Groups were compared to each other as well as dominant and non-dominant hand nerve measurements of participants were also compared.

Results: VAS and qDASH values were not significantly different between groups. It was observed that the rare use of smartphones affected the median nerve conductions in a lesser manner compared to the classical mobile phone use. However, using smart phone in an increasing rate influenced the median nerves adversely.

Conclusion: Excessive use of smartphone can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome via affecting the median nerve. In recent decades, there has been a widespread use of smartphones even at the level of addiction. This should be noted while designing the smartphones and voice applications should be used more often. Furthermore, it can be beneficial to follow up the median nerve conductions of patients who are addicted to smartphones with the help of electrophysiological studies.