Nintendo related injuries and other problems: review

BMJ. 2014 Dec 16:349:g7267. doi: 10.1136/bmj.g7267.

Abstract

Objective: To identify all reported cases of injury and other problems caused by using a Nintendo video gaming system.

Design: Review.

Data sources and review methods: Search of PubMed and Embase in June 2014 for reports on injuries and other problems caused by using a Nintendo gaming system.

Results: Most of the 38 articles identified were case reports or case series. Injuries and problems ranged from neurological and psychological to surgical. Traditional controllers with buttons were associated with tendinitis of the extensor of the thumb. The joystick on the Nintendo 64 controller was linked to palmar ulceration. The motion sensitive Wii remote was associated with musculoskeletal problems and various traumas.

Conclusions: Most problems are mild and prevalence is low. The described injuries were related to the way the games are controlled, which varies according to the video game console.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Enuresis / etiology*
  • Enuresis / psychology
  • Fecal Incontinence / etiology*
  • Fecal Incontinence / psychology
  • Humans
  • Posture
  • Prevalence
  • Seizures / etiology*
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Tendinopathy / etiology*
  • Ulcer / etiology*
  • Video Games* / adverse effects
  • Video Games* / psychology
  • Wounds and Injuries / etiology*