The Effect of Posture and Scapular Position on Performance Parameters in E-sport Players

The research aims to examine how shoulder proprioception, scapular position, physical activity levels and posture influence key performance factors such as visual reaction time, audiotory reaction time and hand-eye coordination.

Various digital tools and tests will be utilized for assessment, including reaction time tests and hand-eye coordination evaluations conducted through HumanBenchmark and Audioreactiontime websites respectively, as well as posture analysis via mobile applications. Shoulder proprioception will be measured at specific flexion angles using a smartphone-based inclinometer, while scapular dyskinesis will be assessed through the lateral scapular sliding test. Additionally, participants' physical activity levels, assessed via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), will be analyzed to determine potential correlations.

E-sport is a competitive sport based on video games played professionally and multiplayer. To perform successfully in e-sport, high coordination and good reaction speed are essential. Studies indicate that prolonged inactivity and lack of physical activity in front of the computer can lead to weakening of motor skills and postural disorders. Additionally, abnormal positioning and movement of the scapula may reflect changes in the activity of surrounding muscles, potentially disrupting the coordinated movement with the humerus and possibly affect shoulder proprioception.

Based on this information, the investigators hypothesize that scapular dyskinesis and postural disorders in e-sport players affect their performance. The aim of our study is to investigate the impact of scapular position and posture on performance parameters, including hand-eye coordination, reaction time, shoulder proprioception, and physical activity among e-sport players.

For the assessment of visual reaction time, will be measured using the test on available on "humanbenchmark.com" will be used. Auditory reaction time will be measured using the test available on "playback.fm." Hand-eye coordination will be evaluated through the "Aim Reaction" test. Posture assessment will be conducted using the mobile application "PostureScreen."

Shoulder joint position sense will be assessed with the smartphone application "Clinometer" at 55°, 90°, and 125° shoulder flexion angles. Scapular dyskinesis will be evaluated using the lateral scapular sliding test at three different shoulder angles with a caliper.

The physical activity levels of the e-sport players will be determined using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

Individuals aged between 18 and 25 years. Professional engagement in PC or mobile e-sports for at least 6 hours per week continuously for the last six months.

PC professional e-sports players compete at a high level within a team, participating in competitive PC gaming.

Mobile professional e-sports players compete at a high level within a team, participating in competitive mobile gaming.

Control group: Individuals aged 18-25 years who played video games for less than 6 hours per week.

Exclusion Criteria For All Groups:

Any neurological, visual, or auditory impairment. History of upper extremity surgery. Use of medications known for their stimulant properties. Conditions that could interfere with test performance.