Musculo-skeletal outcomes in children using information technology-the need for a specific etiological model [An article from: International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics]

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Description:
Children's exposure to information technology (IT) is increasing in leisure, home and educational environments. Recent studies suggest that with this increased exposure there are associated learning, psychosocial and musculoskeletal outcomes. Models have been developed that attempt to represent the relationships between exposure to risk factors and precipitation of musculoskeletal outcomes. These models, based on adults performing work-related tasks in work environments, typically offices, have limited application to children using IT as they do not address children or IT specifically, and they do not investigate IT use as a leisure task or in different environments. This paper will discuss the limitations of adult workplace models, the unique characteristics of children's use of IT and propose a set of variables required in an etiological model of musculoskeletal outcomes of children using IT. Relevance to Industry: Musculoskeletal disorders associated with adult's occupational computer use is a significant occupational health and productivity issue. If children are exposed to similar risks and develop similar disorders this may cause significant costs and liabilities to the education industry. Further, when these children commence paid employment they may be already suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, or predisposed to them due to years of childhood exposure.