Online Gaming Duration and Thumb Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study in Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: Online gaming has become increasingly popular among adolescents and is associated with musculoskeletal complaints, particularly affecting the thumb. Repetitive movements and poor ergonomics during gaming are key contributing factors.

Methods: This quantitative, non-experimental study employed a cross-sectional design to investigate the relationship between online gaming duration and thumb musculoskeletal disorders in adolescents at STIKes RS Dustira. Independent variables included age, sex, and gaming duration, while the dependent variable was thumb pain. De Quervain’s syndrome was assessed using the Finkelstein test, performed by enclosing the thumb in the fist and deviating the wrist ulnarly. A purposive sampling technique was applied.

Results: A total of 50 participants (32 males, 18 females) were analyzed, with an average daily gaming duration of 3.58 hours. The Finkelstein test was positive in 30 participants (60%), indicating thumb pain consistent with De Quervain’s syndrome, while 20 participants (40%) tested negative.

Conclusion: Online gaming duration was significantly associated with thumb musculoskeletal complaints in adolescents. Preventive strategies, including ergonomic education and limiting screen time, are recommended to reduce the risk of De Quervain’s syndrome.