Reduce computer related injury in children

More and more children are exposed to lengthy times on the computer for school work or playing games. Here are some top tips;

1)      Reduce overall exposure to computers, by reading books for info instead of the internet, writing essays before typing them, using a telephone instead of chatting on the net.

2)      Limit your child to 20 minutes a day on the computer, if not at least encourage 5- 10 minute breaks every 20 minutes.

3)      Teach your child the symptoms of rsi. Tingling, headaches, heaviness and soreness are the most common signs. Look for physical signs as most children will not tell you how they feel.

4)      Children should ideally have a workstation sized to them

5)      Try to stay away from laptops

6)      Encourage regular exercise, It is recommended that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily.  Children and adolescents who are just beginning to be physically active should start out slowly and gradually build to higher levels in order to prevent the risk of injury or feel defeated from unrealistic goals. It is important that children and adolescents are encouraged to be physically active by doing things that interest them. This will help them establish an active lifestyle early on.

7)      Teach you child to maintain good posture and correct use of the computer. Particularly encourage them not to allow them to rest there arms on the desk whilst typing or using the mouse, this puts the wrist in a difficult posture.

8)      If pain presents and persists, stop computer use if symptoms occur during use. Get the injury treated immediately; damage that occurs may not always be irreversible.