Whoever coined the term “Crackberry” was spot on. There are now over 12 million Blackberry users married to their Curves, Pearls and Bolds. However, not all marriages end happily ever after.

Repetitive thumb movements have left many of us bruised and broken with Blackberry Thumb, a repetitive strain injury attributed to constant Blackberry use. Pain at the thumb base, joint and web space between the thumb and index finger are all tell tale signs that maybe your mobile marriage needs a break. Yet, like a sex addicted Duchovny we stubbornly type, text and scroll through the motions of a digital love/hate relationship.

Is your Blackberry lovin’ stressing out your thumb? Here are five solutions to ease the strain on your mobile marriage:

1. Take regular breaks – Sometimes time apart is the best solution to any broken relationship. Give your baby some time alone. It’s a win-win situation with less wear and tear on both parties.
2. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy – Never work through the pain. Blackberry thumb is related to carpal tunnel syndrome. If you sit at your computer pounding on the keyboard all day, you might want to refrain from working on your Blackberry during dinner. Workaholics, you’re the culprits in this situation.
3. Use a neutral grip – When holding the device, keep your wrist straight, not bent in either direction. Just think of your hand’s natural position.
4. Change it up – Work hand exercises into your daily routine. There are a slew of short exercises designed too loosen up the muscle tissue in your hand/wrist. Refer to this video tutorial: Blackberry Thumb & Carpal Tunnel Exercises.
5. Treat yourself to a massage – “Tech massages” are blowing up throughout major cities around the world. Spas like Graceful Services in Manhattan are attracting Blackberry addicted workaholics with their Tech Thumb and Neck Massage. This treatment focuses on the neck, shoulders, upper back and hands using acupressure points to relieve inflammation in the joints and muscles. $80 for 60 minutes.Just got a raise? Indulge in the High Tech Wreck Package, a combination of the Tech Thumb and Neck Massage plus an hour long facial targeting the bacteria prone areas and tensed muscles due to phones being pressed against the skin.

Don’t get too excited. These five thumb pain easing tips are only a temporary solution. Pro-activity is crucial in avoiding any repetitive strain injury. Moderation is key folks. Unfortunately, while RIM and other cell phone manufacturers raise the bar higher and higher, we’re doomed to leave our beloved Curves, Pearls and Bolds for something smarter, skinnier and sexier. Sound familiar? I thought so.