News, views and top stories in your inbox. Don't miss our must-read newsletter Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

With the UK now in its third week of lockdown, many bored Brits have turned to gaming in the hopes of filling their time stuck in the house.

But a new study looking into the effects of gaming on the human body may put you off gaming for a while.

Researchers from OnlineCasino.ca have predicted what avid gamers could look like in just 20 years if they don’t change their habits.

The team has created a model called Michael, who doesn’t look too well.

To create Michael, the team looked at research reports looking into the physical effects of staying indoors, sat in a chair while staring at a screen.

The researchers explained: “The visualisation shows that Michael has pale and pasty skin from years of being in artificial light and the result of lack of Vitamin D and B-12. He has stress-related eczema across his legs and arms and a permanently bent back from poor posture.”

Here’s a summary of Michael’s key features, including a rare nail disorder, bloodshot eyes and even arthritis.

1. Head

Michael has painful bloodshot eyes due to extended periods of time staring at a screen.

The model also has an indent in his skull due to consistent, light pressure of wearing a gaming headset.

2. Hands

Unsurprisingly, years of gaming have had a detrimental effect on Michael’s hands.

The model suffers from Onycholysis - a nail disorder caused by repetitive trauma such as tapping fingernails on a keyboard or controller causes the fingernail to loosen from its nail bed.

Meanwhile, Michael has built up ulcers and calluses on his fingers due to the repetitive strain injury of using controller.

3. Back and shoulders

Finally, Michael has developed a hunchback and rounded shoulders.

OnlineCasino.ca explained: “A condition that slowly develops over time, a hyperextended neck, rounded shoulders and hunchback will start as a dull pain occasionally and work its way from your neck to your hands and back as the strains slowly create a bend in the neck which creates the hunchback.

“This is caused by elongated periods of time sitting in uncomfortable positions without stretching or counteracting with regular exercise.”

Based on the findings, the researchers are urging gamers to take proper breaks from their gaming sessions.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

How to avoid looking like Michael