Video Games

Most parents are unaware that children can incur injuries by playing video games. Injury-related illnesses, including “Nintendo Thumb”, are being diagnosed more frequently by doctors whose patients are under age 18. There are many steps parents can take to help children prevent injuries while playing video games.

Take a “time out”: The human body was not designed to spend hours in one position, performing the same task over and over – even if it is while trying to combat evil forces! In order to prevent injuries, children should be taught and encouraged to pause the video game once every 30 minutes. During the pause, the child should stand up and stretch all major muscle groups.

Use a light touch: Gripping the controller too tightly can cause the fingers to blanch and result in a loss of circulation. By using a lighter touch, the fingers will stay more limber.

Adjust your posture: It is better to hold the controller closer to your lap, with elbows bent at a 90º angle or lower. Also be aware of the angle of the wrists: they should be straight (not bent up or down). Also try to sit straight, with legs out in front (and flat on the floor), instead of curled up under the legs.