The hidden injury risk of mobile phones
In recent decades, mobile phones have completely changed the way we communicate – and given us plenty of online entertainment. But it turns out that little device in your pocket or handbag can also cause you an injury.
We all say we couldn’t live without our mobile phones. We need them for work, to stay connected with our friends and family and, of course, to watch cute kitten videos on social media.
But while you’re posting those latest holiday snaps on Facebook, or catching up with the latest trend on TikTok, you may not be aware you’re actually at risk of suffering an injury.
Our data shows that almost 10,000 New Zealanders have made claims for injuries involving mobile phones in the past five years.
There are many ways we’re getting injured while using our mobile devices, with most claims for soft tissue injuries like strains, sprains and bruises.
The most common cause of injury was a loss of balance or personal control but that was closely followed by lifting, carrying, or straining; collisions/being knocked over; twisting; and tripping or stumbling.
The most injured area was the face, followed by the lower back and neck.
While soft tissue injuries were the most common, other claimants suffered cuts, dental injuries and fractures or dislocations.
More than 350 people reported getting an object in their eye.
The dangers of distraction
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker says the data shows the dangers of being distracted by mobile phones.
“Research shows 90 per cent of all injuries are preventable, and mobile phone injuries are no different,” James says.
“While they are an important part of our everyday lives, they can also be a hazard if they cause us to become distracted from other things we’re doing.
“They can also cause injuries if we drop them on parts of our body like our faces and mouths.
“These injuries don’t just affect the injured person – they may affect their friends, family and workmates as well.”
James says these injuries can be prevented if we slow down and take the time to ‘Have a hmmm’ as we go about our daily activities.
He says multi-tasking while using phones can lead to injuries, so everyday activities like household chores and walking outside should be done without added distractions.
While injuries are being reported across all age-groups, the data shows people aged between 15 and 29 are the most likely to be injured while using a mobile phone.
'Have a hmmm' to avoid preventable injuries
Tips to avoid mobile phone injuries
- Avoid multi-tasking while using your phone
- Be careful when using your phone while lying down
- Stop and move to the side when using your phone while walking outdoors
- Avoid using your phone when walking up and down stairs
- Clear trip hazards in and around your home
- Only use your phone when not distracted by other tasks
