Moral of the story: There is a fine line between battling through adversity by enduring pain while competing and sacrificing long term health and well being.  Know where the line is.  Listen to your body and let yourself heal.

By doing so, you will reap the benefits of playing a game so many people love, but will also protect yourself from long-term medical issues down the road. 

Who knows...maybe you'll still be playing when you look like these guys!