Dr Phil Kieran: Are computer games the cause of my son's hand and wrist pain?

I appreciate that he may not be keen on this, but I would encourage him to look at the longer-term picture. 

There are benefits to gaming, however, like with most things, too much can definitely be a bad thing. Picture: iStock 

My teenage son is a committed gamer and often plays for hours over the weekend with his friends. He has recently started complaining about pain in his wrists and right hand, and his grip strength has reduced. It sounds like repetitive strain injury to me. Other than taking a break from his computer — I know he’d refuse — what would you suggest?

Computer games often get a bad rap, but they aren’t a problem in themselves. I’m far more interested in the behaviours surrounding them and how they can affect a person’s health.