Finger Pains while playing Computer Games

[Frybird]

Usually only with the Tony Hawk Games and Rock Band (Drums too, if i dont hold the sticks correctly).

But i had problems with the default configuration of Mirrors Edge. My fingers hurt after a short while until inverted the Left and Right Trigger/Bumper Buttons.

 

[Theo Samaritan]

Sounds like you are developing RSI. Take a break for a while ok?

 

[Lift]

I use to get this too, but only when I was younger, I cant tell you want to do differently I guess I just fixed it somehow... Same with eye strain. I would get red eye from playing Mega Man X. and just sort of ... don't now.

I'm being unhelpful sorry... Theo is probably right it sounds like RSI.

 

[Cahlee]

My butt gets sore after sitting on an uncomfy desk chair for more then 3 hours, but I've never had any problems with my hands/fingers/wrists.

 

[AntiAntagonist]

General tip: learn massage.

Everyone that types (especially gamers) end up having knots in their forearms. These aren't too hard to massage away. This will also help with how long you last in game marathon sessions.

Plus massage is awesome in dating.

Specific tip: take a break once in a while.

My hand turned into a claw for a day after an 8 hour Starcraft marathon. I kept it as a claw for that day because it was too painful in any other position.

 

[Varchld]

Never had a physical problem from using a computer...aside from getting woozy and almost fainting the first time I played wolf3d.

Try playing for less extended periods or getting a more ergonomic gaming mouse.
Adjust your sitting height, desk height or general mouse position.
And gogo google "office oh&s". And take your vitamins, eat your vegetables and comsume adequate amounts of dairy.

 

[David Allen]

With protracted use, I get the pains if I play a game that clearly isn't intended for a keyboard.

 

[Praelanthor]

big probelem back in the days of the N64 i waould get what i called gamers thumb there all the meat from your left thumb tip was pushed aside and it was controll stick to bone hurt like a bastard

 

[MissShortosity]

Keeping your elbow at a good angle will help (somewhere where your shoulders are relaxed, but not too low or you'll start getting shoulder pain) with one of those gel wrist support mouse-pads will help. Don't know if you have one, but gamer mouses (mice? Why can't it be mice for pc ones too?) are a godsend. If you've got your average 2/3 button mouse that comes stock standard, chuck it. It's not big enough for your hand. Find one that feels comfortable and that you can change the weights. My one has buttons on the side so my index finger can take a break.
Once you actually get the pains in your hand, take a few minutes to clench then unclench your fists, shake your hands then stretch your fingers back one hand at a time (this will also stretch the muscles in your arm and increase blood flow).

 

[Zani]

Never happened to me, not even after 36 hours straight of CoD4.

 

[darksaiyan]

Get into a good position and use a good mouse. Else, try getting a higher chair so your arm stays about level with the table. I've never had this problem, but other than that, try to get your hand off sometimes.

 

[Galletea]

I used to play Capcom vs SNK so much I'd get blisters on my thumbs. ShinAkuma still kicked my ass though.

On topic, my mouse made my hand cramp up and my finger go numb because it was too small. I switched to a bigger one and it helped, also make sure you don't lean on the desk with your elbow, that leads to numbness too.

 

[blood77]

I heard that it helps if you use those zen meditation hand balls:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/419TygdXe9L._SL500_AA240_.jpg

 

[komodomantis]

Thank you all for the suggestions and ideas.