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Excessive Smartphone Use as a Risk Factor for Clinical Signs Compatible with De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Excessive smartphone use has become an integral part of daily life among young adults, potentially leading to repetitive strain conditions involving the tendons of the wrist. One of the most frequent disorders linked to such overuse is de Quervain's tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons within the first dorsal compartment. As mobile device use continues to rise worldwide, understanding its musculoskeletal implications is essential for prevention and early clinical management. Aim: This study aimed to examine the association between smartphone usage patterns-specifically screen time and unlocking frequency-and clinical signs consistent with de Quervain's tenosynovitis in young adults, with special attention to the dominant hand. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from an original cross-sectional survey assessing smartphone usage behaviors, addiction severity (Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version, SAS-SV), and musculoskeletal symptoms using the Finkelstein maneuver. A total of 202 participants were included in the analysis. Statistical evaluation employed Spearman's rank correlation, Mann-Whitney U tests, and logistic regression to identify relationships between device usage, addiction level, and pain occurrence in the dominant hand. Results: < 0.001). Participants classified as addicted according to the SAS-SV scale exhibited greater usage intensity, which corresponded with increased pain prevalence. Conclusions: Frequent and prolonged smartphone use, reflected by higher unlocking frequency and screen exposure time, was significantly associated with clinical features suggestive of de Quervain's tenosynovitis in the dominant hand. Users meeting the criteria for smartphone addiction showed greater symptom severity. The diagnosis was based exclusively on clinical examination without imaging confirmation.

Source: Indian Journal of Orthopaedics

DOI: 10.1007/s43465-025-01629-6

Authors: Bartosz Pomianowski, Leon Smółka, Karolina Blady, Miłosz Strugała, Karolina Kursa, Agnieszka Woźniak

Institution: Medical University of Silesia

Language: English

Topic: Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,190