BLACKBERRY THUMB

Typing emails and messages on a Blackberry or other hand-held device requires repetitive thumb motion, which can lead to the development of a variety of conditions, especially tendinitis. Many Blackberry users are of an age when arthritis commonly begins to develop.

These conditions can also result from activities that require similar repetitive thumb motion, such as text messaging on mobile phones and playing video games.

In most cases, the treatment simply involves rest of the thumb. Avoid sending many and/or long messages with the devices and instead use a computer, as keyboards are designed ergonomically to limit strains on the hand.