Game over: Man's elbow pays the price for excessive mobile gaming

A 26-year-old man in Changsha, Hunan province, has developed an unusual health condition due to his excessive mobile gaming habits. The man, surnamed Yang, spent an astonishing 10 hours each day playing games, leading to the growth of numerous small white particles resembling small "pearls" within his elbow joint, reported Hunan Daily, a news outlet based in Hunan.

Yang's condition, known as "synovial chondromatosis," was diagnosed after he sought medical attention for the deteriorating condition of his left elbow. An MRI examination revealed the presence of the particles, which had caused swelling and restricted movement in his elbow.

Yang's gaming habits began in high school but intensified upon entering university. He would often start playing after dinner and continue for six to seven hours, often with his elbow bent and holding his mobile phone.

Over time, Yang noticed swelling in his elbow joint but neglected the symptoms until recently, when his condition worsened, affecting his ability to perform daily tasks.

Yang underwent a minimally invasive surgery to remove the synovial chondromatosis particles from his elbow joint. The procedure, performed through several small incisions, was successful.

Yang is currently recovering well from the surgery. Medical experts at Changsha Central Hospital advise sedentary individuals to be aware of the risks associated with extensive screen time and recommend regular breaks, exercise, and maintaining proper posture to prevent similar conditions.