Yep, it’s a real condition: Cell Phone Elbow

Did you know that there is one cell phone per every two people on the planet? It’s true, and as more and more people are using cell phones, typing at a workstation and using other techy gear that requires a bent elbow results in pain.  You may have heard it referred to as cell phone elbow.  The more technologically correct name for that pain by doctors is called, cubital tunnel syndrome.

Wait, what is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome? According to Medical News Daily and Dr. Peter J Evans, Director of Hand and Upper Extremity Center in Cleveland, OH:

“Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression syndrome in the upper extremities after carpal tunnel syndrome. The syndrome commonly occurs after prolonged cell phone use and manifests as “pins and needles” tingling, aching, burning or numbness in the ulnar forearm and hand. The ulnar forearm is the lower half of your arm, between the elbow and wrist that faces away from you when you bend your arm to touch your shoulder.”

Common culprits the cause Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include extended periods of time talking on a cell phone and typing or sleeping with a bent arm. If the pain goes untreated, the nerve endings can become very inflamed and anti-inflammatory measures must be taken. In extreme cases, surgery is an option to move or remove the stressed nerve, relieving tension.   Check in with your doctor.  Good odds he or she will suggest that you try KT Tape as a drug-free, surgery-free way to ease the pain and allow the nerve endings to function properly.

Filed under: Uncategorized | January 28, 2010
Tags :cell phone elbow , cubital tunnel syndrome , Dr. Peter J Evans , KT Tape , Medical News Daily