Computer Ergonomics and Children
Dr. George Traitses,
At least 70 percent of Canada’s elementary
school students use computers. As a result of
this increased usage, doctors of chiropractic 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 (RMI) such as carpal tunnel syndrome
and chronic pain in the hands, back, neck and
shoulders.
A study conducted by a team of researchers from
Cornell University found that 40 percent of the elementary
school children they studied used computer
workstations that put them at postural risk. The
remaining 60 percent scored in a range indicating
“some concern.”
“Emphasis needs to be placed on teaching children
how to properly use computer workstations,” said Dr.
George Traitses.
“Poor work habits and computer workstations that
don’t fit a child’s body during the developing years
can have harmful physical effects that last a lifetime.
Parents need to be just as concerned about their
children’s interaction with computer workstations as
they are with any activities that may affect their kid’s
long-term health,” added Dr.Traitses.
Tips for Avoiding Injury
• If children and adults in your home share the
same computer workstation, make certain
that 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 two 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 in a neutral position while
typing – not angled up or down. The mousing
surface should be close to the keyboard so
your child doesn’t have to hold the arm out.
• 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 your 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.
• Your child’s muscles need adequate hydration
to work properly and avoid injury. Encourage
your child to drink four 8-ounce glasses of
water a day. Carbonated beverages, juices
and other sweet drinks are not a substitute.
• Urge your child’s school or PTA officials to
provide education on correct computer
ergonomics and to install ergonomically correct
workstations.
“If your child continues to complain of pain and strain
from sitting at a computer, see a doctor of chiropractic,”
urges Dr. Traitses. “A chiropractor can help alleviate
your child’s pain and help prevent further injury.”
For more information on health and safety visit the Ontario Chiropractic Association
Web site at www.chiropractic.on.ca or call 1877-327-2273.
Dr. George Traitses, 416-499-5656, www.infinite-health.com
Dr. George I. Traitses
D.C., B.Sc.(Hon.), M.Sc., C.H.N., C.N.M., A.C.R.B. 3, C.R.A.
2914
Sheppard Ave. E., Suite 206, Scarborough, Ont., Canada, M1T 3J4
+1
(416) 499-5656 Fax: +1 (416) 499-5797
http://www.infinite-health.com
http://www.secretropin.ca
http://www.fastdna.ca
http://www.3stepdetox.ca
_______________________________________________
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Dr. George I. Traitses
D.C., B.Sc.(Hon.), M.Sc., C.H.N., C.N.M., A.C.R.B. 3, C.R.A.
2914
Sheppard Ave. E., Suite 206, Scarborough, Ont., Canada, M1T 3J4
+1
(416) 499-5656 Fax: +1 (416) 499-5797
http://www.infinite-health.com
http://www.secretropin.ca
http://www.fastdna.ca
http://www.3stepdetox.ca
