Video games were extremely popular before the pandemic. However, with people isolating at home, they got a dramatic boost in popularity. Games like Call of Duty: Warzone have helped many people get through their time at home. And one of the most hyped games in recent history, Cyberpunk 2077, just released (albeit in wanting condition).

The video game industry consistently (and successfully) provides gamers with reasons to keep a controller in hand. However, not all gamers are overly concerned with their posture, grip, etc. The game has all their attention. This can lead to pain after some time; here are some things you can do to ward it off.

Loosen Your Grip

A tight grip can place pressure on the passages and bones in your hand, which can lead to numbness, injuries, and pain. Now, many people don’t have a tight grip when they’re playing casually and aren’t stressed. However, games excel at frustrating people or putting them on edge, and this can lead to a tight grip.

The best examples of such games are those made by From Software, such as Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice or Bloodborne. However, players maintain their tight grip after they edge out a boss or fall down a cliff. Check your grip regularly, and loosen it if it’s tight.

Ice and Rest

A keyboard with a blue-white color scheme and lighting

Playing for very long periods can cause your hands to swell up. Constantly moving to press buttons and move joysticks takes a toll. Give your console or PC and hands a break for some time. While your device cools down, ice your hands to cool them down as well.

Posture

Good posture is crucial if you want to keep your back, hands, wrists, and other body parts pain-free. Slouching is alarmingly common when playing video games, and this can place pressure on your lower back. Holding a controller wrong can place pressure on the wrist and lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, among other conditions. Looking too far up or down at your monitor can strain your neck, leading to stiffness.

To remedy these issues, get support. Invest in a gaming chair that has adequate back and arm support. Besides that, be conscious of your wrist’s orientation while playing. If these don’t fix your pain, you may need professional hand therapy. Contact us, at Able Hands Rehabilitation, and we’ll help you out. We’re a group of certified hand therapists that provide custom hand splinting, hand physical therapy, and more in Freehold, Old Bridge, and Edison, NJ.