Wii Injuries

Just because kids sit around in front of their video games doesn't mean that they aren't getting hurt. They're probably not going to break their necks killing aliens on the couch, but their thumbs aren't as safe.

The Wii video game console is unique -- and a little more dangerous -- because it gets the kids (and the adults) off the couch. While they don't go out and do the real action, the Wii gets them to pretend to play tennis, bowling, golf and more right there in the living room. Considering rising obesity rates, anything that gets people more active is a good thing. But if you don't normally play tennis, the action can wreak havoc on your shoulder. Likewise, twisting your leg out of the way of the imaginary bowling ball might just tweak your knee.

Some of the Wii injuries are more straightforward. The controller is made of rigid plastic with hard corners and weighs about as much as a baseball. When you're pretending to throw the virtual pitch and actually let go of the controller, somebody's going to get clocked right between the eyes (or the TV may never work again).
Nintendonitis

The Problem: Nintendonitis has been written about in several different medical journals. It refers to injuries from repetitive strain. Thumbs are most at risk, but with a Wii, shoulders and knees can also take a beating from hitting virtual tennis balls, swinging virtual bats and dodging virtual punches. Sometimes the injuries are severe enough to require hospitalization and even surgery.

The Solution: Stretch, and don't overwork your muscles (remind kids to take it easy, too). When I first got the Wii, I couldn't really get any play time because my children had taken it hostage. Of course, being the adult meant that I don't have a bedtime. Once the kids hit the sack, I stayed up for hours getting my tennis on -- I even broke a sweat. The next morning I was sleep deprived...and quite sore.
Cuts and Bruises

The Problem: When you're hitting your fastest serve, you may learn the hard way that the living room doesn't provide as much space as a real court. John McEnroe never had to whine about hitting the media cabinet. In one study, injuries to the hand made up almost half the total reported Wii injuries. It's bad enough that at least one player claims to have nearly amputated fingers after striking a light fixture.

The Solution: Spread out. Move stuff out of the way. Make some room, and if you still can't manage not to break knuckles on the ceiling fan, it's time to buy some foam to staple to all surfaces. If you're not willing to pad the living room walls, at least know how to treat lacerations.
It's All Fun and Games...

The Problem: Taking a knuckle or a Wii Nunchuk to the eye could lead to some truly permanent damage. It's not just eyes that are at risk; teeth are sitting right in the line of fire, too. I'm still waiting for somebody other than my youngest (who should be losing teeth) to sport a jack-o-lantern grin.

The Solution: I've said it before, spread out. You probably shouldn't be playing the Wii within arm's length of another person, especially if you're boxing. In case you do take a right hook for real, you need to know how to treat facial injuries. Prevention in this case is still the best medicine. If you want to be extra safe, wear safety goggles.
Keep Playing

I don't think the fear of a little extruded eyeball, missing teeth or amputated fingers should keep you from getting off the couch. I'd still rather have my kids play outside rather than play a video game, but I prefer to have them faking a tennis match than rotting in front of the television.

Though these injuries can happen, the Wii isn't likely to cause considerable damage to you or to the kids. Plus, it's pretty fun. I recovered from my sore muscles -- and my sleep deprivation -- and I figure you probably will, too. Enjoy, but just stand back a little more so you don't smack me in the face.