Prolonged gaming sessions increase the risk of pain and physical problems among gamers of all ages
Immersion in the world of video games can bring a wealth of vivid emotions, yet in recent years the question is being raised more and more often: can long hours of virtual battles harm our health? Is it worth sacrificing your well-being for new achievements in a game? These questions are addressed by the recent International Gaming Study of 2022, which summarizes the experience of nearly a thousand gamers from different countries.
What the large-scale study revealed
The authors surveyed 955 people aged 18 to 94 who regularly played video games. The average age of participants was 46, and men and women were represented almost equally. The results were quite telling: prolonged gaming sessions significantly increase the risk of pain and unpleasant physical sensations, and statistically significant differences leave no doubt about the seriousness of the problem.
According to estimates, those who spend three hours or more in a single session are 2–3 times more likely to experience general physical fatigue and pain in the back or neck. For people with signs of internet addiction, the risk increases up to fourfold. Such data make one think about the price of virtual success.
What physical problems have been identified among gamers
The most common unpleasant symptoms were pain in the neck and back, a feeling of overall exhaustion, and rapidly accumulating fatigue. Many participants noted that after especially long gaming marathons, it was difficult for them to recover even the next day.
Such symptoms are well known to those who spend a lot of time sitting in one position, not noticing how the hours fly by. Prolonged time in a single posture, muscle tension, and lack of movement become the main causes of pain. Over time, this can even lead to chronic musculoskeletal problems.
Screen time as a key factor
Researchers clearly defined: a prolonged gaming session is considered a period of three hours or more in a row without long breaks. It is precisely such “marathons” that most often act as a trigger for the appearance of unpleasant symptoms.
The longer a gamer stays glued to the screen, the higher the likelihood of developing pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. Why are just a few hours in a row enough to worsen well-being? Monotonous strain and lack of movement have a rapid negative effect.
Internet addiction and other significant factors
Among the study participants, the international IGDT-10 test was used, which allows for the identification of internet addiction. This test consists of 10 questions assessing the strength of involvement in online games and the impact of this hobby on other areas of life.
It turned out that the presence of signs of internet addiction increases the risk of physical problems by almost four times. At the same time, neither age, nor gender, nor even dreams of a professional esports career have much effect on the likelihood of pain. This indicates that the threat really exists for all categories of players.
Who is in the risk group
The data obtained showed: no age or gender group is immune from such consequences. Physical problems are observed in both young and elderly people, regardless of their general state of health.
Similar risks are noted even among those who do not show signs of internet addiction and do not aspire to become professional gamers. For example, these are the numerous fans of virtual gambling and casual online games. After all, new iGaming promotion technologies have made the industry extremely popular. And the trend, according to experts, will only continue.
The popularity of the iGaming industry has been influenced by the fact that today there is a great variety of such entertainment. Some of them are aimed at a casual audience and attract the broadest masses of players. An example is gambling arcades, especially plinko. According to data to the link, in recent months plinko games have become more numerous, which also indicates their popularity. Despite the simplicity of the gameplay, games of this genre can provoke prolonged gaming sessions. And that means all the associated health problems as well.
A parallel can be drawn with office workers who are forced to sit at the computer for long periods and also face back pain and fatigue. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical breaks have a negative impact regardless of whether it is about games or work.
Why this topic is becoming increasingly important
Every year, video games are becoming an increasingly popular form of leisure, and the time people spend in front of screens is only increasing. The availability of powerful computers and mobile devices, the fascination with esports, and the constant release of new projects create ideal conditions for the emergence of the problem.
Against such trends, a logical question arises: how can one preserve the enjoyment of virtual entertainment without sacrificing health and well-being?
Recommendations: how to reduce health risks
Experts recommend a number of simple and effective measures that help minimize risks:
- Take breaks every 40–60 minutes, stand up and stretch
- Watch your posture and choose a comfortable chair with back support
- Include light physical activity between gaming sessions
- Use an ergonomic mouse, keyboard, and monitor to reduce strain on the body
The authors of the study emphasize: “Even passionate gamers should remember — health is more important than victory in any game.” Many experienced players have already developed the habit of combining intellectual battles with short warm-ups, which allows them not to sacrifice either points or well-being.
Limitations of the study and opportunities for future analysis
It is important to remember that the data are based on participants’ self-assessments. This always implies a certain margin of error and individual differences. The long-term consequences of prolonged gaming sessions require further study, especially for different age and social groups.
Researchers recommend that all gamers pay closer attention to their condition and critically assess their own gaming habits, responding in time to the body’s early warning signs.
Explanation of key terms
Internet addiction is understood as such an involvement in online games that a person loses control over time and puts games above other areas of life. Physical symptoms are any manifestations of pain, fatigue, or discomfort associated with the gaming process. A gaming session is a continuous period of time spent playing.
It is important to remember that this is a mass trend, not isolated cases. This is a problem affecting a wide range of people and requiring attention not only from the players themselves but also from society as a whole.
The path to balance between excitement and well-being
Gaming marathons can bring pleasure, but the risk to health is becoming increasingly obvious. How can one find the golden mean? The answer lies in reasonable limits, attentiveness to your body, and a responsible approach to your favorite hobby.