Candy Crush, Temple Run, and Xbox are just a few of the addictive games prevalent today. Coupled with non-stop texting, millions are spending hours on gaming devices, smartphones, and keyboards, leading to a rise in complaints about aches and pains in thumbs, and hands – leaving many to wonder can gaming cause arthritis in my thumbs?
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The pain and stiffness may be the result of a Repetitive Stress Injury. Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) result from prolonged repetitive motions causing inflammation in joints’ ligaments and tendons. Conditions like Trigger Finger and Thumb, Bursitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Tendinitis are common RSI’s triggered by excessive game, phone, and computer usage without breaks.
Symptoms of Repetitive Stress Injuries
Symptoms of RSI vary, but can include:
- Pain, aching or tenderness
- Stiffness
- Throbbing
- Tingling or numbness
- Weakness
Managing Repetitive Stress Injuries
Managing RSI involves pinpointing and adjusting the triggering activity. Other tips for managing RSI include:
- Take frequent breaks and rest
- Apply a heat or ice pack on the sore spot
- Take anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen)
- Wear a splint or brace
*If symptoms persist, seeking advice from a healthcare provider is recommended.
One common question is: Can extended gaming or repetitive stress injuries contribute to the development of arthritis? While the hand and wrist joints frequently used in gaming and texting may be more vulnerable to Osteoarthritis or Inflammatory Arthritis, there is no conclusive evidence to date, that gaming or texting will actually lead to arthritis in later years.
So Good news for all you gamers and texters! The verdict on “Can Gaming Cause Arthritis In My Thumbs?” leans towards a reassuring no.
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Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we cannot provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
I call bs. The only repetition I have done with my thumbs over last 13 years is the xbox controller. I have arthritis at base of both thumb bones because of it. You should survey long time gamers who have 10+ years of gaming for a few hours every day then I think your results would be much different.