AFK! : Injury prevention and performance interventions for esports players
Pirklova, Karolina (2023)
2023
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023111529559
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2023111529559
Tiivistelmä
The world of esports has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, with an increasing number of players competing professionally. However, the sedentary nature of esports and constant repetitive movements have led to several health issues among players.
The objective of this thesis is to explore the common health issues experienced by esports players and identify effective methods for preventing gaming-related injuries while optimizing gaming performance.
Research shows that the most common musculoskeletal injuries of gamers appear in the hand, wrist, neck, and back. Other possible health problems include digital eye strain, insomnia or poor sleep quality, and venous thromboembolism.
To mitigate these issues, this thesis suggests incorporating various strengthening, stretching, and mobility exercises into the routine to positively impact the musculoskeletal system, leading to injury prevention, reduced pain, and improved performance. Taking active breaks during gaming sessions may enhance focus and decision-making and reduce strain caused by static posture. Moreover, implementing an ergonomic setup will help prevent musculoskeletal pain and injuries resulting from poor posture by keeping the body in a neutral sitting posture and providing adequate support to the neck, back, upper and lower limbs. Finally, adequate sleep hygiene will provide optimal recovery and improve cognition.
The proposed solutions are compiled in the form of a guidebook, with the goal of improving the health and well-being of esports players, enabling them to perform better and achieve greater success in their careers.
The objective of this thesis is to explore the common health issues experienced by esports players and identify effective methods for preventing gaming-related injuries while optimizing gaming performance.
Research shows that the most common musculoskeletal injuries of gamers appear in the hand, wrist, neck, and back. Other possible health problems include digital eye strain, insomnia or poor sleep quality, and venous thromboembolism.
To mitigate these issues, this thesis suggests incorporating various strengthening, stretching, and mobility exercises into the routine to positively impact the musculoskeletal system, leading to injury prevention, reduced pain, and improved performance. Taking active breaks during gaming sessions may enhance focus and decision-making and reduce strain caused by static posture. Moreover, implementing an ergonomic setup will help prevent musculoskeletal pain and injuries resulting from poor posture by keeping the body in a neutral sitting posture and providing adequate support to the neck, back, upper and lower limbs. Finally, adequate sleep hygiene will provide optimal recovery and improve cognition.
The proposed solutions are compiled in the form of a guidebook, with the goal of improving the health and well-being of esports players, enabling them to perform better and achieve greater success in their careers.