Teen’s Spine Damaged After 12-Hour PUBG Marathons
Do you or someone you know spend hours playing online games like PUBG? Doctors warn that excessive gaming, especially over long periods, can seriously damage your spine and in rare cases, even lead to paralysis.
A recent case in New Delhi has highlighted the dangers. A 19-year-old boy who was addicted to online gaming for nearly a year ended up with severe spinal damage and needed urgent surgery to avoid permanent disability.
The Alarming Case of a Teen Gamer
The teenager had locked himself in his room, playing games for up to 12 hours every day. Over time, he lost interest in school, physical activity, and even social interactions. Eventually, he started having trouble walking and controlling his bladder.
When doctors examined him at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC), they found that he had developed a serious curve in his spine, a condition called kypho-scoliosis. The deformity was caused by spinal tuberculosis, an infection that had gone unnoticed due to his sedentary and isolated lifestyle.
Delayed Diagnosis Made It Worse
The prolonged immobility and lack of medical attention allowed the TB infection to spread. It caused pus to build up around his spine, which started pressing on his spinal cord. This pressure led to nerve damage and the risk of paralysis.
Dr. Vikas Tandon, Chief of Spine Services at ISIC, explained, “This was a complex case with both physical and psychological challenges. The spinal deformity was severe and could have resulted in permanent disability if left untreated.”
Successful Surgery
Doctors performed a complex spinal surgery to correct the curvature, remove the pressure on the spinal cord, and treat the infection. Thankfully, the patient started recovering soon after he regained the ability to walk and control his bladder.
“This case shows how excessive gaming and lack of physical activity can hide serious medical problems. If not treated in time, the consequences can be devastating,” Dr. Tandon said.
Health Risks of Excessive Gaming
Doctors are now seeing more young patients with similar musculoskeletal problems bent backs, neck pain, and posture issues all linked to long hours of screen time and inactivity.
“This is more than just about spinal TB,” Dr. Tandon added. “Gaming addiction, poor posture, and social isolation are creating a hidden health crisis among teenagers. We must raise awareness, encourage early medical check-ups, and support mental health.”
Key Takeaways for Parents and Teens
- Monitor screen time and ensure breaks during long gaming sessions.
- Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor play.
- Watch for signs of social withdrawal or physical complaints like back pain.
- Seek timely medical advice delayed diagnosis can make things worse.
Excessive gaming may seem harmless, but when it becomes an addiction, it can impact both mental and physical health in serious ways.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
