Prolonged smartphone use may contribute to pain in the hands, wrists and thumbs, as repeated scrolling, typing and gripping can place strain on muscles, tendons and other soft tissues, medical experts in the United Arab Emirates have warned.
Frequent thumb movements and holding a phone in the same position for extended periods can increase discomfort, particularly when users spend hours on their devices without taking breaks.
However, experts caution against assuming that heavy smartphone use directly causes arthritis. Current scientific evidence is insufficient to establish that prolonged mobile phone use causes joint degeneration or inflammatory arthritis.
The discomfort associated with repetitive movements may improve when users reduce their screen time, take regular breaks and avoid holding their phones too tightly for long periods. Changing hand positions and allowing the hands and wrists to rest can also help reduce strain.
The warning highlights the importance of healthier smartphone habits as mobile devices become an increasingly central part of everyday life. Users experiencing persistent pain, swelling, numbness or difficulty moving their hands should seek medical advice rather than dismissing the symptoms as ordinary screen fatigue.
