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New Delhi, May 2:
A 19-year-old Delhi boy’s year-long addiction to online gaming has resulted in a severe spinal deformity and brought him dangerously close to permanent paralysis, in a case that doctors say highlights the grave health risks of excessive screen time and social isolation.
According to the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC), the teenager spent up to 12 hours a day playing games like PUBG, isolating himself in his room and withdrawing from school, physical activity, and social interaction. Over time, his health deteriorated sharply. He developed a progressive curvature of the spine, struggled to walk, and eventually lost control over his bladder-alarming signs that his spinal cord was under pressure.
Doctors at ISIC diagnosed him with a severe kypho-scoliotic spinal deformity-an abnormal forward and sideways bending of the spine-compounded by previously undiagnosed spinal tuberculosis (TB). The prolonged inactivity and late diagnosis allowed the TB infection to worsen, leading to abscess formation and pus accumulation that compressed his spinal cord.
“This was a challenging case due to the dual complexity of advanced spinal TB and the psychosocial impact of gaming addiction,” said Dr. Vikas Tandon, Chief of Spine Services at ISIC. “The spine had suffered significant deformity, compressed the cord, and threatened permanent disability. We used spinal navigation technology to plan and execute precise vertebral instrumentation, spinal cord decompression, and fusion. Fortunately, we were able to realign the spine, relieve the pressure on the cord, and restore his mobility. The patient responded well-early signs of neurological recovery were visible within days of the procedure. Timely surgical intervention played a key role in reversing paralysis and preventing long-term disability”.
Following the complex corrective surgery, the boy quickly began to regain control over his bladder and started walking again. He is now on a structured rehabilitation plan that includes physiotherapy to rebuild strength and counselling to address his gaming addiction.
Dr. Tandon and his colleagues warn that this is not an isolated incident. “We are seeing a disturbing trend of musculoskeletal complications in adolescents, especially due to prolonged screen exposure and sedentary habits linked to gaming,” he said. “This case is not just about spinal TB-it reflects a growing public health challenge where physical and mental health are deeply intertwined. Excessive gaming, poor posture, and social isolation can create a perfect storm for delayed diagnoses and serious outcomes. Awareness, parental monitoring, and early intervention are critical to prevent such cases”.
Doctors are urging families and schools to take gaming addiction seriously, warning that what may seem like harmless entertainment can quickly escalate into lifelong health issues. They stress the importance of regular physical activity, early medical attention for unusual symptoms, and open communication about mental health and screen habits.
“This case shows why early medical attention, parental awareness, and regular physical activity are so important. Gaming addiction can be more dangerous than it looks, especially when it hides symptoms of serious illnesses like spinal TB,” Dr. Tandon emphasized.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on reports and statements from medical professionals at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with gaming addiction or experiencing health issues related to prolonged screen time, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
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