Contractures of the Hand in a Boy with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Associated with Use of a Computer Game Console

Abstract

Summary A boy with Duchenne muscular dystrophy played finger-operated computer games for up to six hours daily. He experienced fatigue, stiffness and occasional pins and needles which might have led to contractures in his hands. His condition led him to adopt a sedentary game but also predisposed him to stiff joints. Physiotherapists need to be aware of this propensity. A joy-stick operated game might carry less risk of repetitive strain injury – for all children.