THUMBS DOWN

With the increasing use of text-messaging devices, more attention is being given to repetitive motion injuries of the thumb.

In 2005, the American Society of Hand Therapists issued a consumer alert warning users of small electronic gadgets that heavy thumb use could lead to injury. Overuse can aggravate arthritis and contribute to disorders such as tendonitis.

TO AVOID OVERUSE INJURIES OF THE THUMB:

1. Don't type any harder than necessary. Using excessive force can be fatiguing.

2. Be brief. Let people know you are replying from your BlackBerry and can e-mail later.

3. Alternate muscles. If possible, use more fingers to type.

4. Invest in a full-size keyboard to plug into the device if it is used frequently.

5. Alternate input method. Try using a stylus or a pencil eraser to type.

6. Take breaks and try to limit your duration of use. Stretching your hands can improve blood circulation.

7. See a physician if you experience pain or discomfort while texting.

Source: Fort Gordon Installation Safety Office

TODAY

THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE CHRISTMAS LIGHT-UP SPECTACULAR: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Market's Holiday Market on the Augusta Common; 2-4 p.m. Augusta Christmas Parade on Broad Street; 4-6:30 p.m. Family Fun on the Augusta Common; 6 p.m. the Spectacular officially begins with Mayor Deke Copenhaver "throwing the lights"; fireworks after the lighting; Family Fun includes entertainment from community choirs, carriage rides, crafts for children, Santa Claus and petting zoo.

LIGHTS FOR LYDIA DAY: People will light luminaries tonight for women coping with cancer, with Mayor Deke Copenhaver lighting the first luminary at The Augusta Chronicle Christmas Light-up Spectacular; luminary bags cost $10 and are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday through December at The Lydia Project, 1321 Arsenal Ave.; proceeds benefit the organization's outreach to women; (706) 736-5467.

SANTA BREAKFAST: 8:30-11:30 a.m. at Cedar Ridge Elementary School; For more information, contact Olga Cagle-Astorga at (706) 394-6771.

NUNCRACKERS: 8 p.m. at Le Chat Noir, 304 Eighth St.; $25; (706) 722-3322, lcnaugusta.com.

THE PERFECT GIFT: 7-9 p.m.; Whole Life Ministries, 2621 Washington Road; sidewalk presentation of life of Christ.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: 8 p.m. today, 3 p.m. Sunday, Imperial Theatre, 745 Broad St.; $12-$38, (706) 826-4707, www.augustaplayers.com.

NORTH AUGUSTA CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; featuring seven homes: Vince and Linda Dwan, River Club, 460 Shoreline Drive; Skip and Jean Jones, Olde Towne, 910 Carolina Ave.; Deborah Holmes, Hammond's Ferry, 463 Arrington Ave.; Kevin and Lee Little, Hammond's Ferry, 468 Front St.; Steve McElmurray, Campbelltown Towne Landing, 141 Savannah Point; Donnie Thompson, 930 River Oaks; Chris and Melody Garrison, 419 W. Martintown Road; $18 at the door; (803) 279-5074.

DEAR SANTA: Today and Sunday; and Dec. 14-15, Aiken Community Playhouse, Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St., Aiken; cost is $17, $15 seniors, $12 students; $6 for ages 12 and younger; (803) 648-1438, www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com.

DECEMBER DASH 10K: 9 a.m., at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park; benefits Southeastern Natural Sciences Academy programs; register at (706) 828-2109, www.active.com.

HOLLY DAYS: Today and Dec. 15, downtown Aiken; Santa pictures, crafts, shopping bargains; holiday music, 11 a.m. Dec. 15, Aiken Center for the Arts, 122 Laurens St.; (803) 649-2221.

TURKEY SHOOT: 6 p.m. at the Grovetown Lions Club on Old Louisville Road, in Grovetown; turkey shoot fundraiser; cost is $3 per shot for a chance to win a turkey and other items; concession stand is available.

ADVENT DAY: 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Church of Our Savior, 4227 Columbia Road, Martinez; Advent Day of Reflection; continental breakfast, drinks and snacks will be provided; participants should bring a sack lunch; (706) 863-1718.

CHANUKAH CONCERT: 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Children of Israel Walton Way Temple, 3005 Walton Way; cost is $18 for adults, free for children 18 and younger; tickets may be purchased at the door; a dessert reception will follow; The Boyn Helzner Trio will perform; (706) 855-7279.

BREAKFAST WITH A black Santa: 9-11 a.m. today and Dec. 15, Sunshine Learning Center, 1805 Kissingbower Road; Christmas carols, live entertainment, crafts and door prizes; $5, includes photo with Santa; (706) 364-4600.