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In this modern era, of course we don’t feel strange about the presence of videos game as a form of entertainment that can be accessed wherever and whenever we are. When nimble fingers glide over controller or keyboard to play a favorite game, few are aware of the serious medical threats that may interfere with the enjoyment of playing game, namely Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Here are some things you need to know about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an occupational disease that occurs due to continuous disturbance of the condition of the hands and is often associated with activities that use the hands for long periods of time which can affect the nerves, blood supply to the hands and wrists (Sari et al., 2020) .
Game dan Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In this day and age, video game is an activity that has high interest and popularity among various age groups in Indonesia, especially teenagers (Eric, 2020). When someone has a high interest in playing, there will be more intensity in playing game become even higher. Games game with high intensity and long duration causes players not to make many movements in one fixed position, which can increase the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Duration of Playing Video Games
Someone who has a high interest in playing gameor commonly referred to as gamers, possibly using his hands for long periods of time to play. If it is not alternated with stretching, the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will be higher. This is because there is pressure on the median nerve which is located in the carpal tunnel, resulting in inflammation and narrowing of the median nerve and pain in the hand which will limit hand movement (Djoar & Martha, 2019)
Gejala Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In general, people who are diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome experience hand pain at night that occurs irregularly and gets worse when they wake up. Then, this was followed by numbness in all the fingers with muscle weakness. Symptoms will tend to increase at night or when they perform repetitive movements, especially flexion and extension of the arms for long periods of time (Rosario & Jesus, 2023). Symptoms can also occur during the day when carrying out daily activities, such as a less strong grip when holding objects.
Preventive Actions
According to Annisa et al. In 2021, there are several ways you can prevent and reduce the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
1. Reduce repetitive movements or stiff hand movements
An example of this repetitive movement is pressing a button on a controller or keyboard repeatedly while playing game.
2. Adjust the table and work tools to a neutral position
This method can be done by using a controller that fits in your hand and is light and adjusting your body posture when playing game. This matter because the nerves in the hands are also influenced by the position of the back, neck and shoulders. Comfortable and safe posture when playing game This can be done by using a chair that has back support, adjusting it monitor with eye level, upper arms and lower arms parallel when playing gameand avoid bending the wrist too much towards the little finger.
3. Modify the layout of the workplace to facilitate varied movement
Modifications can be done by creating a play area game which allows for occasional stretching while playing. For example, by not playing in places that are too crowded with items or playing while sitting in a chair with a table in front of you.
4. Change your work schedule so you can get enough rest
Play game You must pay attention to rest time after activities all day and get enough sleep at night.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Before treatment is carried out, it is necessary to diagnose the history of our condition with the Tinel and Phalen Test. The Tinel test will show a positive result if the tap is repeated throughout carpal tunnel produces CTS symptoms. Meanwhile, the Phalen test is carried out by flexing the hand up to 90 degrees and will show positive results if the maneuver produces symptoms in the distribution of the median nerve (Osiak et al., 2022).
People who experience mild to moderate symptoms can be helped by hand-splint to reduce the severity at night and steroid injections will be performed if the symptoms do not decrease (Marshall et al., 2007). If the treatment does not work and the symptoms that arise are already severe (after being tested with electrophysiology) then an operation can be performed by a neurosurgeon and a hand (Raizman & Blazar, 2018).
As someone who loves videos game, it is important to have awareness in maintaining physical health, especially in the hands and wrists. Even though it seems trivial, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can interfere with us carrying out daily activities or just enjoying hobbies. Playing games should be carried out by paying attention to healthy playing patterns so that we can avoid CTS and still enjoy playing games without obstacles.
2023-12-10 15:05:08
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