Good computer ergonomics benefit young students

Poorly configured computer workstations can cause long term harmful physical effects

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At least 70% of America’s 30 million elementary school students use computers, according to a recent New York Times article. As a result of this increased usage, health care professionals are treating more young patients suffering from the effects of working at computer stations that are either designed for adults or poorly designed for children. Many children are already suffering from repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic pain in the hands, back, neck and shoulders.

A recently published study conducted by a team of researchers from Cornell University found that 40% of the elementary school children they studied used computer workstations that put them at postural risk. The remaining 60% scored in a range indicating “some concern.” It was pointed out that there needs to be an emphasis placed on teaching children how to properly use computer workstations. In addition, poor work habits and computer workstations that don’t fit a child’s body during the developing years can have harmful physical effects that can last a lifetime. Parents need to be just as concerned about their children’s interactions with computer workstations as they are with any activities that may affect their children’s long-term health.

What can you do?

To reduce the possibility of a child suffering painful and possibly disabling injuries, health care professional have developed some tips.

If children and adults in share the same computer workstation, make certain the workstation can be modified for each child’s use.

Position the computer monitor so the top of the screen is at or below the child’s eye level. This can be accomplished by taking the computer off its base or stand, or having the child sit on firm pillows or phone books to reach the desired height.

Make sure the chair at the workstation fits the child correctly. An ergonomic back cushion, pillow or a rolled-up towel can be placed in the small of the child’s back for added back support. There should be 2 inches between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knees. The chair should have arm supports so that elbows are resting within a 70- to 135-degree angle to the computer keyboard.

Wrists should be held in a neutral position while typing not angled up or down. The mousing surface should be close to the keyboard so a child doesn’t have to reach or hold the arm away from the body.

The child’s knees should be positioned at an approximate 90- to 120-degree angle. To accomplish this angle, feet can be placed on a foot rest, box, stool or similar object.

Reduce eyestrain by making sure there is adequate lighting and that there is no glare on the monitor screen. Use an antiglare screen if necessary.

Limit each child’s time at the computer and make sure he or she takes periodic stretch breaks during computing time. Stretches can include clenching hands into fists and moving them in 10 circles inward and 10 circles outward; placing hands in a praying position and squeezing them together for 10 seconds and then pointing them downward and squeezing them together for 10 seconds; spreading fingers apart and then closing them one by one; standing and wrapping arms around the body and turning all the way to the left and then all the way to the right.

Children’s muscles need adequate hydration to function properly and avoid injury. Encourage children to drink four 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Carbonated beverages, juices and other sweet drinks are not a substitute.

Urge the child’s school or PTA officials to provide education about correct computer ergonomics and to install ergonomically correct workstations.

If a child continues to complain of pain and strain from sitting at a computer, it is important to seek the advice of a health care professional in order to alleviate pain and help prevent further injury.

 

 

Contributed by Dr. Erica Hamer, DC, DIBCN, DIBE, Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist and owner of Ponte Vedra Wellness Center with offices in Ponte Vedra Beach and Nocatee Town Center.