Physical health problems in children using computer

Abstract

Computers are being used by children in Thailand and many countries around the world. There are increasing reports of a relationship between increased musculoskeletal disorders in children and the computer users. Children reported musculoskeletal pain can be occurred at neck, back, shoulder, arm, wrist and hand. During using computer, sustained posture and repetitive contraction are main reasons for the risk of muscular pain. It was found that some children reported muscular pain at mild level, however in some cases, muscular pain was found at moderate and severe level during using computer. The causes of the musculoskeletal problems are type of computer, poor workstation, the large size of children head compared with body, and the way to interact with computer during using computer which is different from adult. Guideline for children using computer is that children should sit with the feet fully supported on the floor with knee bending at 90 degree. Keyboard and/or mouse should be placed at the elbow height and upper arm should be relaxed beside the body and the keyboard is under the fingers. Finally, the cause of physical health problems especially in musculoskeletal problems during using computer has been found in children. Clinician, parents, teachers and children should consider and work together to prevent this adverse health problems.