Do not trip over a Pokemon!

On the other hand, opponents argue that the creatures appear in places which should be treated with respect and should not be used for playing. They also warn that the game can be dangerous – we know about several accidents of people who paid no attention to the environment staring at the phone screen while walking or running.

– “Inactive and incumbent people suddenly started to walk encouraged by this new game – and it is a very good sign” – said Dr. Lukasz Luboinski, Head of the Department of Orthopaedics, Traumatology and Sports Medicine in Carolina Medical Center – “Physical activity is an essential element of our physiology and a major factor in reducing the risk of diseases such as heart attacks or strokes. By increasing the produce of endorphins or “Happy Hormones”, movement improves mood, acts as an antidepressant, reduces the feeling of stress, but like all the pleasures should be dosed with caution!” – warns Luboinski.

The sudden increase of activity of persons, who have so far led more inactive lifestyle, may involve certain risks and problems:

• Cardiac arrhythmias – untrained heart muscle, which suddenly and within a short time has to pump a significant amount of blood into the body, may be subject to serious ischemic changes, resulting in heart attack or dangerous arrhythmias. Good news is that such a risk does not threaten those who choose to walk normally.
• Ankle sprains and fractures – walking with eyes fixed on the phone may cause ankle sprains or even fractures if we unfortunately stumble over something on the road. Joint sprains result in physical therapy and activity limitations, lasting in the optimistic scenario for about a week; at worst – “One should be prepared for the immobilization of limbs, walking with crutches and a 2-month rehabilitation. Pain may occur up to six months after injury” – adds Dr. Luboinski.
• Overload injuries – another group of hazards are chronic injuries caused by overload – such as tendonitis – usually of Achilles tendon, which, if left untreated, can lead to breakage. Injuries of this type often occur in people who suddenly begin to intensively train without adequate preparation.

– “I am the great supporter of pulling people out from their desks and persuade them to physical activity, but always with a dose of self-criticism and a realistic assessment of their capabilities” – sums up the popularity of the game “Pokemon Go” Dr. Lukasz Luboinski.