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Experts are warning of a yet another threat from your phone: cell phone elbow. When you hold the phone to your ear, you stretch the nerve that controls the ring and pinky fingers; bending your arm too tightly for too long "chokes the blood supply to the nerves," explains one doctor, which can cause tingling or numbness, making writing and typing difficult. The very scientific solution? Switch hands.
It’s not just long chats that can cause what’s known as cubital tunnel syndrome, which is less serious than carpal tunnel: It can affect those who lean on their elbows too long, type with arms bent tightly, or sleep curled up. Doctors say using the phone isn’t dangerous: It just shouldn’t be overdone. To dodge the issue, avoid bending your arm tighter than 90 degrees for long periods, and don’t spend too much time leaning on your elbow.
