Tuesday
Jun022009
Tue, June 2, 2009 | Lisa Barger Cell Phone Elbow
“Is cell phone elbow really real or is this just one of those made up diseases to sell us more meds?”
Unfortunately, this one is real. Medically, it’s known as cubital tunnel syndrome and affects the nerve that runs under your elbow. What’s happening in “cell phone elbow” is that people are holding their cell phones to their ears for too long a time. In that particular position, the nerve gets stretched, the blood supply gets cut off and the nerves in the ring and pinkie fingers sort of “short circuit”.
The name “cell phone elbow” may be new but the condition itself isn’t. Truck drivers and others who prop themselves on their elbows while sitting for long periods can develop this syndrome. Even people who sleep with their elbows tucked under their heads can sometimes notice the effects. Basically any activity that has your elbow bent at more than 90 degrees puts you at risk.
In very severe cases, people need surgery to repair the damage but doctors say most of us just need to switch hands once in a while or use a headset when talking on the phone.
Unfortunately, this one is real. Medically, it’s known as cubital tunnel syndrome and affects the nerve that runs under your elbow. What’s happening in “cell phone elbow” is that people are holding their cell phones to their ears for too long a time. In that particular position, the nerve gets stretched, the blood supply gets cut off and the nerves in the ring and pinkie fingers sort of “short circuit”.
The name “cell phone elbow” may be new but the condition itself isn’t. Truck drivers and others who prop themselves on their elbows while sitting for long periods can develop this syndrome. Even people who sleep with their elbows tucked under their heads can sometimes notice the effects. Basically any activity that has your elbow bent at more than 90 degrees puts you at risk.
In very severe cases, people need surgery to repair the damage but doctors say most of us just need to switch hands once in a while or use a headset when talking on the phone.
This is "retired" article left in place for archival purposes. It may not reflect current thinking or research on the topic.