Chances are you are probably reading this article on your phone. Let’s be honest—our devices are practically an extension of our hands at this point. We go on our phones to find directions, the latest news, what our friends are up to. And all that requires is our thumbs.
“Texting thumb” may sound hilarious, but it is, in fact, a real condition. Formally known as De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, it causes pain in the tendons of the thumb and the wrist. There are a few ways to treat it, including resting the joint, using a heat and ice pack, and taking medication to reduce the inflammation. These exercises will also help.
Step #1
Spread your fingers to stretch the hand gently without forcing it, while relaxing the arm and shoulder and breathing deeply. Perform 3 times a day.
Step #2
Stretch passively by using your other hand to massage and stretch the thumb and wrist.
Step #3
Stretch the forearm. Stand up with your palms on a table and your fingers pointing toward you. Be gentle and hold for about 20 seconds. Repeat this with the backs of the hand on the table, especially if you spend a lot of time at a keyboard.
