Swipe Smart, Not Hard: Hand Health of Smartphone Users in a University Population

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to determine the frequency of hand and wrist symptoms and their correlation with smartphone use in a Portuguese university population. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among students from the Universidade do Porto, Portugal, through convenience sampling using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised five parts: socio-demographics, smartphone use patterns, potential symptoms, the Mobile Phone Dependence Test (TMD) adapted for Portuguese adolescents and youth, and the Portuguese version of QuickDASH. Results: Among 597 eligible participants most employed their dominant hand for smartphone holding, with females exhibiting greater usage and symptom frequency than males. Reported symptoms included pain, tingling, and swelling, with symptom frequency linked with improved relief upon reduced smartphone use. Greater TMD scores and daily smartphone usage correlated with higher QuickDASH impairment, but no association was found with smartphone size or weight. Blisters, swelling, and redness appearance patterns were influenced by the holding position. Relief strategies included mobility exercises and additional measures such as creams or medication, varying by symptom zone and type. Conclusions: Prolonged smartphone use is associated with an increased frequency of hand and wrist symptoms and upper limb functional impairment. Gender differences in dependency and symptom frequency highlight the importance of tailoring interventions to the target population, considering factors that might influence smartphone usage and its consequences. Ergonomics are crucial, as particular grips contribute to localized symptoms. Although reducing usage alleviated symptoms for most, some required additional measures. These findings emphasize the necessity for awareness and behavioral changes concerning smartphone use. Level of Evidence: Level 4