Burning Sensation in Fingers: Is It Related to Smartphone Use? - Neurology

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The burning sensation and tingling in your fingers, particularly after prolonged smartphone use, could indeed be related to repetitive strain or nerve compression, commonly seen in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or ulnar nerve entrapment. These conditions can arise from the repetitive motions and awkward positions often associated with extended smartphone use. The symptoms you describe—burning, tingling, and discomfort—are indicative of nerve irritation or damage, which can occur due to prolonged pressure on the nerves in the wrist or hand.

The medication prescribed to you, Mexiletine (脈律循), is primarily used to treat certain types of arrhythmias, but it has also been found to have analgesic properties for neuropathic pain. This means it can help alleviate nerve pain, which might explain why your doctor prescribed it in conjunction with vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health, and deficiencies can lead to neuropathy, which could exacerbate your symptoms. Therefore, while Mexiletine is not specifically indicated for your condition, it may provide some relief for the nerve-related symptoms you are experiencing.

It’s important to note that the burning sensation you feel, especially when using your smartphone, could be a sign of nerve compression or irritation. The ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of your arm and into your hand, can become compressed, leading to symptoms in the fingers, particularly the ring and little fingers. Similarly, the median nerve can be affected in carpal tunnel syndrome, leading to symptoms in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms for over a year and have seen multiple doctors without improvement, it may be beneficial to seek a specialist in neurology or a hand specialist. They can perform specific tests, such as nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG), to assess the function of your nerves and determine if there is any underlying nerve damage or compression.

In addition to medical treatment, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure that your smartphone use is ergonomically sound. Use your device at eye level to avoid straining your wrists and fingers. Consider using voice-to-text features to reduce the amount of typing.

2. Frequent Breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch your fingers, hands, and wrists. This can help reduce strain and improve circulation.

3. Wrist Supports: Consider using wrist braces or supports, especially during activities that exacerbate your symptoms. These can help keep your wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the nerves.

4. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles in your hands and wrists and improve flexibility, which may help alleviate symptoms.

5. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected areas can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing overall screen time and incorporating more physical activity into your daily routine can also be beneficial.

In conclusion, while the burning sensation in your fingers may be related to your smartphone use, it is essential to explore all potential underlying causes with a healthcare professional. The prescribed medications may help, but addressing ergonomic factors and considering physical therapy could provide additional relief. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you have regarding your treatment plan.