Doctors warn of 'iPod Finger'

Constant use of small buttons with the same finger could lead to RSI

The British Chiropractic Association (BCA) has warned that a form of repetitive strain injury could be hitting UK users of Apple's iPod and other similar media players. 

Dubbed 'iPod Finger' the problem affects the fingers of "music-mad consumers who are constantly using the scroll-wheel or buttons on their MP3 players to organise their song library, update playlists and adjust the volume of their favourite artists".

BCA spokesman Dr Carl Irwin said: "Hand-held music machines are extremely popular and users are constantly using small, difficult buttons with the same finger in a repetitive motion.

"The nature of modern technology means that these devices are only going to get smaller and I would not be surprised if hand and finger related injuries become one of the most common repetitive strain injuries that chiropractors treat."

Dr Irwin warned that young people are especially vulnerable since their bones and muscles are still growing and repetitive actions could lead to problems in later life.

The best way to avoid 'iPod Finger' is regularly to stretch the hands and fingers and try to alternate the hand that controls the player, according to the BCA.

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