Have you ever cracked your fingers unconscientiously? Do you bend your wrist or twist your neck unknowing of it? How many hours in front of the computer do you REALLY spend? Ever participated in a Nintendo 24 hour marathon?

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As the old saying goes, too much of one thing isn't healthy. The two major Nintendo-related injuries (osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel) occur over a long period of time. We are not talking about one sit down play of 1942.

Osteoarthritis

What are the symptoms?

*Pains in joints after exercise, stiff joints when inactive, tender joints, and sound of bones 'rubbing together'

Who is effected with Osteoarthritis?

*People 18+ are most immune, however below aged patients (though rare) can get arthritis- 45+ ages suffer the most severe forms

What is used to treat Osteoarthritis?

*Over the counter drugs (e.g. aspirin), prescribed medicines, surgery, and most importantly: exercise

Carpal Tunnel

What are the symptoms?

*Painful muscle aches brought on by overuse, numbness, tingling, coldness, burning, and stiffness

Who is effected with Carpal Tunnel?

*Overworkers- using one instrument for long periods of time without breaking

What is used to treat Carpal Tunnel?

*Over the counter drugs (e.g. aspirin), prescribed medicines, surgery, and most importantly: exercise

Nintendo Injuries

Now that you know a few general facts about both illnesses, it's time to get straight down to the bones of the issue (no pun intended).

Problem: The absolute rectangular shape of the controller forces you to bend your wrist and press down in an awkward position. People with bigger hands have an even harder time since the wrist is required to adapt even more.

Solution: Purchasing a 'dog bone' controller (from the New Style Nintendo) should make you feel much more at ease.

Problem: I call this one Button-itis. Constant play when using the regular Nintendo controller can cause your thumb some annoying pain. Playing with torn skin is just asking for more throbbing. How can you tell you have Button-itis? An actual imprint of the circular button will appear at the top of your finger. (See picture)

Solution: Simply put, you need to obtain a more comfortable controller! The easiest accessory to recommend is the NES Max. The sliding "d-pad" and less stern A and B buttons will put your aching fingers to rest.

Remedies

So you've probably still haven't gotten over the warm, welcoming un realization of anything bad happening to little, ol' you. Statistics agree, but looking out for your health should be a very high priority. Below are a few easy steps you can and should do on a daily basis.

EXERCISE! Put your game on pause and get out of the house. Or if you are more comfortable hanging out indoors than out, pull out that Power Pad and work those arms and legs!

For more organized individuals, try out a personal morning program:

- Start out doing 50 hand stretches (opening and closing both hands)

- Next, try 15 pull-ups

- My most hated stretch is next, pull-ups. Try doing 10-15

- Now to cool down. For your final exercise do some leg stretches- hold one leg straight up behind, focus on something (so you do not lose balance), and hold it for 2 min. Switch legs and hold the other for 2 more min.

WEIGHT LIFTING! Without overdoing it, try lifting some weights. Sporting good stores carry a good variety of weights. Gyms and Y's are great, too.

CORRECT POSTURE! I think it is safe to say almost everyone has played the NES while slacking off (on a couch, seat, floor, etc.). Next time try straightening up your back in a good posture.

Congratulations! Now Treat Yourself.

To some chewy delicious shark fruit snacks.