Technology has been responsible for some everyday wonders that
expand our minds and make our lives easier--wonders that
simplify redundant and monotonous tasks and keep us in constant
contact. Because of these marvels though, we have also become
aware of the potential harms caused by the use of technology's
devices and the science of ergonomics that has helped us learn
how to prevent or correct the problems caused by their
repetitive use. The U.S. Department of Labor defines a MSD
(musculoskeletal disorder) as an injury or disorder of the
muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, or spinal discs
caused by repetitive motion and overexertion. Now MSD, RSI
(repetitive stress injury), "tennis or golfer's elbow"
(tendonitis) and carpel tunnel syndrome have been joined by
another repetitive motion injury term, "BlackBerry Thumb"
BlackBerry Thumb has become an all-encompassing phrase for the
overuse of small keypad devices that populate the mobile
handheld world. Much like "Gamer's Thumb" has plagued the young,
many tech savvy business executives and road warriors among us
are now suffering from what is known as DeQuervain's disease or
BlackBerry Thumb. Typing with your thumbs to answer email or
record vital client contact information, even dialing your cell
phone with your thumb can contribute to or cause BlackBerry
Thumb.
The thumb is stronger than the other digits of the hand but it
isn't very dexterous. The pain caused from overuse of the thumb
is caused by swelling of the sheath of the tendon. Use of a
stylus when typing on small keyboards or better yet investing in
an external keyboard has been suggested to prevent injury. If
you find you are already suffering from BlackBerry Thumb, rest
of the hand and ice should help but if it doesn't you may need
to consult your physician.
For more information regarding the study of ergonomics and
repetitive stress injuries and ergo safety tips visit Cornell
University Ergonomics Web at
www.ergo.human.cornell.edu, the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration website at
www.osha.gov or the Bureau of Labor Statistics at
www.bls.gov
© 2005, by Lynnette A. Phillips
Article may be reprinted freely as long as the author bylines
and info box are included.
About the author:
Lynnette Phillips is a Certified Notary Signing Agent, Mobile
Notary Public and one of the millions of people who depend on
their Cell Phone for both business and personal needs.
www.yucaipamobilenotary.com
