Save your fingers from mobile phones

Almost all the gadgets of the present day require use of fingers (specially thumb) for their operation. The most frequently used gadget today is the mobile phone. Since the mobile phones now have variety of features in them we may boast of having entire world in our finger tip. Quoting a saying in Kannada “ಅತಿಯಾದರೆ ಅಮೃತವೂ ವಿಷ” the extensive use of anything will be harmful. Even though there is dilemma about whether mobile radiations affect human body or not, there is no doubt in the fact that excessive use of mobile affects our fingers. The problem is severe with the use of non-touch screen phones. The excessive use of thumb for different operations like messaging, browsing, playing etc. will result in a problem called blackberry thumb syndrome. Blackberry thumb is a type of repetitive strain injury which is caused due to high stress on fingers and is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome. It is advisable and easier to prevent it in earlier stages rather than in advanced stages which may require surgery. Early symptoms are smaller itching or pain in joints when you use your mobile for extended duration. Preventive methods are using a touch screen phone if you can afford, as many cheaper touch screen phones are available nowadays. Otherwise you can reduce the use of your present mobile phone by avoiding typing long messages and make use of shortcuts wherever possible. Giving rest to your fingers is very important when you feel finger is strained. You can release the strain by dipping your fingers in warm water for few minutes. Massaging the finger or doing some exercises may also prove useful. I hereby request all mobile phone users not to spoil your fingers for just few minutes of fun.