Gaming Gripes: Why eSports Players Feel the Pain

eSports players are no strangers to aches and pains. A recent study dug into this issue, focusing on those who use keyboards and mice. They surveyed 60 players, from casual to pro, asking about their pain, injuries, gaming habits, and physiotherapy use. The results? A whopping 71. 7% of players reported musculoskeletal pain. The lower back, wrists, and neck were the usual culprits. Interestingly, pro players felt this pain more than others. The study found that poor sleep and skipping warm-ups made things worse. Only a small number of players had injuries bad enough to need medical help, and even fewer had seen a physiotherapist. This study shows that pain is common but often ignored in eSports. It suggests that better ergonomics, warm-up routines, short breaks, and targeted exercises could help. These strategies align with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, aiming to boost both performance and overall well-being. The study highlights a big gap in how eSports players manage their health. It's a call to action for players, coaches, and health professionals to prioritize prevention and care.