3 of 5

Write now Article Tools

Ergonomics is something people tend to focus on as adults, and neglect the need for it in regards to children, but children are just as susceptible to the dangers of repetitive stress injuries as adults are, maybe even a little more. Kids have I-pod's, computers, handheld games, and almost everything they encounter is likely to be related to ergonomics. Using one of those is likely to cause a repetitive stress injury.

The symptoms of repetitive stress injuries in children includes

-a tingling feeling in the body part, which may be accompanied by a numbness or pain

-stiff or sore neck and back

-weak or tired feeling in hands and arms

-a feeling that the body part is popping or clicking.

Children who notice these symptoms need to tell a parent or doctor immediately before it gets too severe. If a repetitive stress injury occurs as the result of poor ergonomics, it can stop the child from participating in everyday activities. Some of those disorders include; Bursitis, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, and Tennis Elbow.

To prevent those problems from developing in children, try some of the following tips.

-Make sure that the furniture they use is properly fitted for their size. A six year old and a sixteen year old will need different chairs, unless the chair adjusts to fit each one.

-Keep the top of the computer screen aligned with the forehead, so that they do not have to lean forward or over to see. That puts pressure on the back and neck.

-Likewise, their entire back should touch the chair back, from head to lower back. If the chair doesn't mold, use a rolled up towel to add support.

-Feet should be flat on the floor, or supported by a footstool; letting legs dangle can cut off blood circulation.

-Teach kids the proper way to type, as soon as possible. Typing too hard against the keyboard is a big no-no. the repeated action of banging on the keyboard puts too much tension on the fingers and hands.

-Keep kids on a timer. Too much time spent on the computer (or video game) can lead to hand, wrist, eye, back, and neck strain.

-Vary activities. Try alternating one or two hours outside for every hour spent inside. If he/she wants to play a video game, let them play for an hour, and then spend one hour taking a walk around the block, or kicking the soccer ball around in the yard.

-Avoid using a laptop for all computer needs. A laptop causes the body to slum forward, putting too much strain on the back and neck.

-Just like you should take it easy with typing, take it easy with writing; don't grip the pen or pencil too tightly, and use padded writings utensils or a pen grip.

For adults ergonomics considers the relationship between work and the body, and for children work includes school, after-school activities, and athletics. Kids need to pay attention to their body, and how it feels during certain activities. When there's pain, take a break and have it checked out. These are only a few helpful facts on children and ergonomics.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Guide to ergonomics for children?
We want to hear your view. Write now!