How I MS-Proofed My Phone

Multiple sclerosis (MS) used to make me drop my phone a lot. I worried about cuts, skin infections, and expensive repairs. Now, I’ve learned to protect my device — and myself.

That moment when you tug your phone out from your pocket and fumble, only to hear it thud on the floor: It lies screen-down, and you brace yourself before flipping it frontward to see the dreaded cracked glass, the scuffs, and scratches. I shudder at the thought of a broken shutter or another expensive repair (pun intended!).

These accidents are common for everyone, sure. For me, with my clumsy, neurodivergent grip, it happens too frequently. It might seem minor, but it’s really something that shouldn’t be ignored. Cracked glass, if it’s seriously shattered, could definitely draw blood even from a swipe of the finger. I’ve gotten cut from the jagged edges of an exposed glass corner. Although it’s usually just a small nick, it concerns me because I’m afraid my fingers, numb from MS, could make it hard for me to notice.

Also, because I take Ocrevus for my secondary-progressive MS, my immune system is especially compromised, and I have to be careful about skin infections. Although it may seem insignificant at first, a lingering cut can lead to a serious issue.

That’s why the upkeep of my phone is an important safety consideration. I’ve taken several steps to ensure my expensive equipment stays safe from my fumbling hands, and these tools and practices have kept me protected.

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Function over form

A sleek phone case is really pretty, but the aesthetic is ruined if the screen is busted. I used to have a collection of flimsy cases because I thought they were prettier, and it took me a lot of broken phones to realize another repair was just not worth it. The good news is that there are plenty of accessories that’ll protect your tech and keep it looking fresh, like the following:

• Sturdy, lipped phone case: Consider durability over style when purchasing a case, especially if dropping your phone is a common occurrence for you, too. A raised lip is essential to avoid scratches by preventing the camera and screen from making contact with the floor when dropped.
• Glass screen protector: A thin layer of glass on top of your screen will shield it from impact. I prefer tempered glass, since it is more durable and absorbs shock better than plastic. It’s also smoother to the touch and so thin it’s almost undetectable. A screen protector will totally save your device the next time your phone inevitably drops. It’s like getting an extra life for your screen.
• Phone lanyard: There was that one time when I was on vacation, and I leaned over a guardrail to take a photo of a beautiful waterfall. If I had secured my phone to my wrist with a lanyard, it probably wouldn’t be floating in Ecuador’s Pailón del Diablo waterfall right now. Having your phone strapped on you like a necklace or a bracelet ensures that your phone is not going anywhere. You can even find cute beaded lanyards if the aesthetic is important to you, too!
• Phone grip: You can attach a secure grip to the back of your phone. Newer phones can use grips with magnetic attachments, while older ones may need grips with adhesive. Phone grips come in lots of styles, from the collapsible rubber kind, like PopSockets, to metal rings you can hook your finger through.
• Wireless charging pad: If, like me, you tend to accidentally jerk your phone from its charger and send it flying toward the nearest hard surface, one of these pads would avert that whole commotion. Just lift your phone from the base when it’s done charging. No pulling or jerking necessary.
• Running belt: Secure your phone during workouts by keeping it in a zipped, pocket-like waist bag. This ensures that it stays safely on you while you’re working on your fitness.

I’ve learned that equipping my phone with accessories is key, but plenty of mishaps have made me realize that I need to practice better habits. Although it may be guarded against a smash, I have to be careful not to drop it in the first place. Because I’m constantly clutching this pricey device in hand, I’ve created guidelines for my relationship with my phone.

Rules to live by

In addition to making the most of protective accessories, I’ve also learned some general strategies for keeping your phone safe.

• Keep your phone in your front pocket: If you need your phone at the ready and can’t store it in your bag, your front pocket is a better choice than your back one. It can slip out of the back pocket more easily, especially if you bend over or squat. Keeping it up front will prevent falls in the worst places, like bathrooms.
• Use both hands: Although many people use their phones with one hand, my limited mobility makes it challenging for me, even when I make it easier on my large iPhone screen. Trying to type on a phone with a single hand has led me to more fumble-and-falls than anything else. So, I make it a practice to always use both hands now.
• Get the insurance: Your phone carrier may offer coverage for accidental damage, and it’s totally worth it. My insurance plan with T-Mobile also offers unlimited screen protector replacement. I’ve used this many a time.

The takeaway

Save on repair costs by equipping your technology with protective accessories. This may keep it from falling or shattering on impact from a drop. It goes a long way to secure the safety of your phone against weak, uncoordinated, or tremoring hands.

Most importantly, if you’re immunocompromised, keeping your phone protected will help you avoid injuries that could potentially lead to infection.