Whatsappitis: The New RSI On The Block

Smartphones have become a necessity in today’s digital world. Most of us spend a significant amount of time glued to our phones each day. While great for helping us to stay connected, the increase in smartphone use has led to the development of new, unique conditions. One of which is now being dubbed ‘Whatsappitis’.

A form of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), Whatsappitis is named after the popular instant messaging app. So, what exactly is it and should you be worried about this type of RSI?

What is Whatsappitis?

Whatsappitis was first mentioned in The Lancet medical journal back in 2014. A doctor noticed that she experienced pain in her thumbs and wrist. This was after spending more than six hours messaging through her phone.

Repetitive, prolonged movements can lead to inflammation or injury of the tendon or other structures. As a result, you feel pain and reduced mobility in the affected area.

But it isn’t just using instant messaging apps like WhatsApp that can lead to this form of injury.

Understanding the rise in RSIs

RSIs have long been documented in medical literature. In the mid-nineteenth century these disorders were known as writer's and other occupational cramps.

However RSIs is an umbrella term that can be used to describe a group of discrete conditions that can be attributed to repetitive tasks, vibrations or repetitive eccentric movements.

In today’s society, the increased reliance upon computers, smartphones and tablets has resulted in a steady increase in RSIs of the arms, hands, neck, and shoulder.

Often, work from home spaces are not set up correctly. This leads to poor posture, and potential repetitive strain injuries.

Top tips for working from home

If you want to enjoy working from home, pain free, there are a few great tips you can follow. These include:

• Following the correct sitting posture

• Invest in a laptop stand

• Take regular screen breaks

• Only use handheld devices for short periods of time (and hold them at eye level)

Making sure you follow the correct sitting posture will help to avoid a repetitive strain injury in your wrist and your shoulder. Your bottom should be placed at the back of the chair, and your knees, hips, and elbows should remain at a 90-degree angle. Ideally, you should invest in an ergonomic chair. These are designed to be used for long periods at a time.

If you work on a laptop, a stand can really help to keep your screen at eye level. However, you choose to work, taking regular breaks is going to help prevent overuse of the muscles and tendons. Ideally, you should stand up every hour, and take a screen break every 20 minutes or so. You can find more great tips for working from home here.

There are no quick-fixes for RSIs and they can become extremely painful. However, if you catch them early, there are effective approaches to their treatment and prevention. An ergonomic assessment as well as a tailored exercise plan go a long way to help ease the symptoms of an RSI.

If you suspect you may already be suffering from an RSI, call 02030 12 12 22 to book an appointment. We can also help to organise a remote ergonomic assessment of your workstation if needed.