A Guide to using Kinesiology Tape for Gamers Thumb and Wrist Pain

Introduction: Why This Topic is Important for Gamers

Gaming is an increasingly popular hobby.

For gamers there are risks associated with excessive game play. The most common injury is pain in the thumbs or wrists. One study has shown that up to 40% of gamers experience pain in their thumbs at some point in time, and there are an equal number who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome.

The thumb is responsible for both the direction and acceleration of the game character, while the wrist controls digital input like jumping or shooting.

Furthermore, game makers often overlook ergonomic considerations for gamers by not including features like adjustable seats or controllers designed to reduce strain on hands and wrists. This puts more pressure on gamers to make sure we are taking care of ourselves when playing games.

What are the Symptoms of a Gamer's Thumb Injury?

A gamer's thumb injury is any pain or injury that occurs from playing video games for a long period of time.

The most common symptom is a dull, aching pain in the thumb joint. This can be caused by anything from repetitive motion to poor posture during play.

The gamer will often feel a grinding sensation in the joint as well as swelling and stiffness after the gaming session is over.

How can Kinesiology Tape assist in treating Gamers Thumb and Wrist Pain

A Gamers Thumb is a repetitive stress injury to the thumb, usually from holding a controller or mouse for too long without stopping. It can cause pain and inflammation in the thumb, swelling and discomfort when gripping, and even numbness in the hand.

The wrist pain can also be caused by repetitive motions such as pressing buttons or rapidly moving a joystick.

Kinesiology tape can be applied to assist in the reduction of pain and inflammation of these conditions. It can also help with other conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, tendonitis, and other forms of repetitive stress injury.

How to apply Kinesiology Tape for Gamers Thumb and Wrist

a. Cut a single strip of Kinesiology Tape in half with rounded corners.

b. On your thumb nail apply the tip of one half.

c. Gently stretch the strip so it's straight before securing it at your wrist.

d. Gently lower your wrist joint and lightly press the tape to your skin. Raise it back to the original angle.

e. Apply the end of the second half on top of the first one but a little further in front, so it hangs over your thumb nail.

f. Secure it over the fingertip.

g. Gently stretch the strip and secure it a little further towards your elbow than the first strip.

h. Repeat step (d).

i. Cut another single length of kinesiology tape in half down the middle. Cut corners of the tape so that the edges are rounded. This help to prevent the tape from coming off prematurely.

j. Holding the ends of one strip with both hands, stretch out the middle.

k. Apply the middle across the base of your thumb joint and gently secure the ends down each side of your hand / wrist

l. Repeat step (j) with the second short strip.

m. Apply the second strip on top of the first strip but, about an inch further towards your elbow.

For further detailed instructions and information please visit our website at www.ttbtapes.co.za/pages/about-kinesiology-tapes-humans

A Guide to using Kinesiology Tape for Gamers Thumb and Wrist Pain

A Guide to using Kinesiology Tape for Gamers Thumb and Wrist Pain

Introduction: Why This Topic is Important for Gamers

What are the Symptoms of a Gamer's Thumb Injury?

How can Kinesiology Tape assist in treating Gamers Thumb and Wrist Pain

How to apply Kinesiology Tape for Gamers Thumb and Wrist

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