Orthopedist Dr. Diego Falcochio brings information on this inflammation that affects tendons
Tendinitis can be caused by overuse of electronic devices
Inflammation of the tendons, also known as tendonitis, can reach different areas of the body, especially in regions such as the elbows, knees, shoulders and hands. In the latter case, one of the reasons may be the use of computers and mobile phones. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only 1 in 100 people develop the painful symptoms of tendonitis. This is one of the most common causes of absence from work, as it can be triggered by repetitive movements performed with inadequate preparation. Therefore, if left untreated, it can become a chronic condition. Therefore, when there is recurring inflammation, the individual may not be able to perform certain actions that trigger constant pain in the region. To avoid a chaotic scenario, it is recommended to consult a doctor after the first manifestation of symptoms. Therefore, thinking of addressing the central aspects of the matter, the orthopedist
Diego Falcocchio*
provides more information on tendonitis. Then, you will understand the relationship between cell phone and computer use to the condition. Enjoy the reading!
How do I know if I have tendonitis?
Pain in the affected region is the main manifestation of the condition. It targets specific areas and also manifests as radiating pain. That is, you may only have tendonitis in your wrist, but the discomfort will be felt throughout your arm. In addition to pain, some of the main symptoms are:
- loss of strength;
- crackling or “squeak”;
- accident.
Agree with the doctor. Diego Falcochio, these are the main symptoms surrounding the manifestation of tendonitis. He may also experience local swelling. When these symptoms occur, it is necessary to seek professional help to begin the necessary treatments so that it does not develop into a chronic condition. The diagnosis is made clinically, through the physical examination and the anamnesis, the latter consisting of an interview conducted by the doctor so that he knows the patient’s history in detail. The doctor. Diego Falcochio also specifies that additional tests such as x-rays, ultrasounds and magnetic resonance imaging may be required.
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Tendinitis: use of mobile phones and computers, understanding the relationship. – Image by Canva.com
Can using cell phones and computers cause tendonitis?
The causes of inflammation are many and can be the result of local trauma or excessive and repetitive use of specific areas of the body. In addition, it can also be associated with a sedentary lifestyle, infection in the tendon region, can be caused by secondary diseases or even genetic predispositions. But one of the current villains are computers and cell phones.
“A very common cause of tendonitis today is cell phone use. Typing in an inergonomic way, holding the device in the wrong position, using the thumbs too much”, says Dr. Diego Falcoccio. Several health professionals point to the harmful effects of excessive use of technologies and the pandemic may have been an aggravating factor of the situation.
The covid-19 has isolated many people in their homes, and with this has promoted the constant use of technology to carry out activities, both professional and for entertainment. Through mobile phones, tablets, video games and computers, the latter being “a “consecrated” cause of tendonitis. The poor ergonomics of the home office, forced by the pandemic, has increased the number of people affected, “according to the orthopedic surgeon. Besides being one of the most common causes for the development of tendonitis, typing can also aggravate the condition. For these patients, caution with typing should be strengthened. According to the specialist, the hands and wrists are the regions with the greatest incidence of inflammation.
“These are the most common places for tendonitis, although it can occur throughout the body. In certain periods of life, such as in the puerperium (immediately after the birth of a child), in old age and in patients who have certain chronic diseases (such as diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis and hypothyroidism) are significantly more likely to develop tendonitis”says Dr. Diego Falcocchio.
What are the possible treatments for tendonitis?
There are several treatment options, they vary for each type of injury. The doctor. Diego Falcochio points out that there are 4 most used options when dealing with an injury of this nature, they are:
1. Reinforcement
In acute cases, a splint, plaster or continuous orthosis can be used for a few days to reduce the pain. After this period, it is necessary to switch to night use. The use of this device is intended to immobilize the affected region. Wearing the orthosis during the day may reduce symptoms, however, it weakens the musculature around the wrist, which can increase pain and hinder strength in the medium to long term. Therefore, it is indicated that it is a temporary treatment.
2. Medicines
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs are excellent for pain control in the acute phase. In the chronic phase, muscle relaxants and pain relievers can be used.
3. Rehabilitation
Doing occupational therapy or physiotherapy is almost mandatory. In rehabilitation, you can improve pain control, stretch, and begin strengthening that will prevent the tendonitis from recurring.
4. Treat the cause
If the patient returns to the activity that started the inflammation, without improving his posture, without changing the way he pushes, without worrying about the position of the hand to perform the movement, the tendonitis tends to recur. So, in addition to stretching and strengthening the region, you need to change the way you do your activities.
What are the consequences of not treating?
“With treatment, in mild to moderate cases, the condition usually eases and you can return to activities of daily living, work, physical activities and hobbies”, says the orthopedic surgeon. However, in the acute stage, tendonitis can be a disabling condition.
In chronic cases, this comeback can be difficult. The onset of the condition tends to be more pronounced and returns after returning to the activities that inflamed the tendon, but even with the possibility of a return, seeking proper treatment is essential.
“Failure to treat tendonitis causes conditions to worsen. For almost any disease, it is much easier, quicker, and more effective to seek treatment in the early stages. However, in chronic tendonitis, conditions can leave sequelae, even after proper treatment”, concludes Dr. Diego Falcoccio
*prof. doctor Diego F. Falcochio is an orthopedic specialist in hand and microsurgery, Master in Health Sciences at the Faculdade Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP), Instructor Professor at the Faculdade Ciências Médicas da Santa Casa de São Paulo (FCMSCSP) , Assistant Group of Hand Surgery and Microsurgery of the Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo, General Coordinator of the Medical Residency Commission of the Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo (2019, 2020), Member of the Commission for continuous training of the Brazilian Society of Surgery of the Hand (2018, 2019, 2020), President of the Committee for the Control of Orthopedic Materials of the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (Sbot) (2018, 2019) and Permanent Member of the Technical Council of the Implants of the ‘Brazilian Medical Association (2018, 2019, 2020)
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.