Riyadh: The global esports industry is witnessing rapid growth, coinciding with the ongoing Esports World Cup in the capital, Riyadh. The surge has highlighted the need to support players’ professionalism not only in terms of technical skills but also in physical and mental health.

According to Saudi Press Agency, a new medical specialty has emerged – ‘esports medicine’ – dedicated to providing comprehensive care aimed at enhancing performance, preventing injuries, and managing the pressures associated with high-level competition. This specialty represents a practical response to the growing needs of players, whether professional or amateur, as it combines several medical fields, including physiotherapy, rehabilitation, nutrition, hand medicine, and healthy lifestyle management.

In remarks to the Saudi Press Agency, General Practitioner at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital Dr. Eyad Abo Jayab stated that the evolution of esports from a hobby into a major industry has increased the need for specialized healthcare to support players’ sustainability and competitiveness. He indicated that the new specialty focuses on providing comprehensive medical support to players and helping them avoid common injuries in the field, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, neck and back pain, joint stiffness, as well as the effects of stress and fatigue.

Dr. Abo Jayab indicated that the specialty is not limited to treatment alone but also includes preventive and educational programs aimed at raising players’ awareness. It offers guidance on proper nutrition, correct sitting posture, and strategies for coping with competitive pressure, all of which positively impact their performance within the gaming environment, he said. Moreover, he noted that modern medicine in this field contributes to enhancing athletic performance through continuous monitoring, post-injury rehabilitation, and enabling players to return swiftly to competitive arenas.

Esports medicine stands as one of the major indicators of the sector’s maturity and its growing awareness of the importance of holistic health in a highly competitive environment.