Mayo Clinic Letter Enlightens Wii-itis Problems

More often than not, we see a ton of Wii-related articles that seem to place blame on playing the Wii for different injuries.  We've had Wii-Knee in the past, in which hospital researchers simply said that playing too much of the console would lead to these injuries.

This, however, is a bit more refreshing to hear.

In a response today to a Medical Edge letter to the Mayo Clinic, Sports Medicine Specialist Jennifer Roth explained the medical reasons why some Wii gamers may experience such pain.  She begins by noting that many injuries are caused by not wearing the wrist strap (for shame!) that comes with the Wii Remote.

It gets very interesting, though.  It seems that overuse injuries have gotten the term "Wii-itis," and for good reason.  Tennis players may often get "tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) or shoulder pain (rotator cuff tendonitis)."  Injuries stemming from playing Wii Sports Tennis actually "follow the same pattern."  Roth explained the injuries perfectly, saying:

"There tend to be differences in the mechanism of injury caused by Wii play. Unlike going out and playing tennis or golf, there is no resistance when you play those games on the Wii. For example, in tennis when you hit the ball, the force of the impact slows your arm. When you're playing tennis on the Wii, you just swing through air. This lack of resistance can cause extra strain (eccentric contractions) on your muscles, which can lead to additional injuries, such as muscle strains and occasionally muscle tears"

The amount of resistance when playing Wii Sports is, for all practical purposes, zero. Essentially, many are over-swinging their remotes, adding too much force when playing the game.  The remedy, according to Roth, is Wii in moderation.

Roth says that playing the Wii 20 to 30 minutes at a time is reasonable.  Impressively, she also mentions that the Wii has messages (well, Wii Sports does) built into it that will ask if you would like to take a break.  Of course, those flicking their wrists while laying on a couch may not have to heed this advice.

Regardless, it is good to see sound medical advice for these issues that don't just "blame the game."  Roth ends the letter saying:

"Overall, Wii games can be an excellent source of exercise if used properly and in moderation. They can teach core strengthening and fitness to people who otherwise may be inactive. But, always listen to your body. If you're sore, take a break, try the simple measures mentioned above and see your doctor, if needed."

In other words, go play Super Smash Bros. Brawl, then you probably won't get hurt.

Source: Post-Bulletin