Triad of spinal pain, spinal joint dysfunction, and extremity pain in 4 pediatric cases of “Wii-itis”: a 21st century pediatric condition

Abstract 

Objective

This article describes 4 pediatric cases of overuse injuries related to playing Nintendo Wii (Nintendo, Redmond, WA). A brief discussion is also presented regarding other 21st century problems found in the literature, such as problems associated with playing the Nintendo DS portable electronic device, text messaging, and Blackberry (Research in Motion, Waterloo, Ontario) thumb.

Clinical Features

Four pediatric patients, ranging from 3 to 9 years old, who had injuries causally related to what has been described in the literature as “Wii-itis” (spinal pain, spinal joint dysfunction [chiropractic subluxation], and related extremity pain), presented to a chiropractic clinic.

Intervention and Outcomes

Each of the 4 pediatric cases was evaluated and managed using chiropractic techniques. All patients successfully had their complaints resolve with 1 chiropractic visit.

Conclusion

Children in the new era of portable electronic devices are presenting to chiropractic offices with a set of symptoms directly related to overuse or repetitive strain from prolonged play on these systems.

Key indexing terms: Chiropractic, Children, Electronic equipment and supplies