Musculoskeletal disorders in smartphone play to earn gamers: A comparative study
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Play-to-earn (P2E) gaming on smartphones significantly increases the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with higher prevalence observed in P2E gamers compared to non-P2E gamers. Upper back, neck, and lower back pain were most common among these gamers.
Area Of Science
- Digital Health
- Ergonomics
- Public Health
Background
- Play-to-earn (P2E) games are increasingly popular smartphone applications.
- These games often involve repetitive actions and prolonged use in suboptimal postures.
- This usage pattern elevates the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Purpose Of The Study
- To determine the prevalence of MSDs in smartphone P2E gamers.
- To compare MSD prevalence between P2E gamers and non-P2E gamers.
- To investigate MSD risk factors among students and staff at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences.
Main Methods
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 involving 938 participants.
- Data collection utilized a demographic questionnaire and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire.
- Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, and Chi-square tests.
Main Results
- One-year and seven-day MSD prevalence were 80% and 70.3% in P2E gamers, respectively, exceeding non-P2E gamers.
- The most affected areas were the upper back, neck, and lower back.
- P2E gamers showed significantly higher seven-day prevalence of MSDs in wrists/hands and upper back; gaming history and screen unlock frequency correlated with increased MSDs.
Conclusions
- P2E gaming on smartphones is associated with a higher likelihood of developing MSDs.
- Targeted guidelines for P2E gamers are recommended to enhance awareness and prevention strategies.
- Further research into ergonomic interventions for P2E gaming is warranted.

