Cumulative trauma disorder risk for children using computer products: results of a pilot investigation with a student convenience sample.
OBJECTIVE
Cumulative trauma disorder is a major health problem for adults. Despite a growing understanding of adult cumulative trauma disorder, however, little is known about the risks for younger populations. This investigation examined issues related to child/adolescent computer product use and upper body physical discomfort.


METHODS
A convenience sample of 212 students, grades 1-12, was interviewed at their homes by a college-age sibling or relative. One of the child's parents was also interviewed. A 22-item questionnaire was used for data-gathering. Questionnaire items included frequency and duration of use, type of computer products/games and input devices used, presence of physical discomfort, and parental concerns related to the child's computer use.


RESULTS
Many students experienced physical discomfort attributed to computer use, such as wrist pain (30%) and back pain (15%). Specific computer activities-such as using a joystick or playing noneducational games-were significantly predictive of physical discomfort using logistic multiple regression. Many parents reported difficulty getting their children off the computer (46%) and that their children spent less time outdoors (35%).


CONCLUSIONS
Computer product use within this cohort was associated with self-reported physical discomfort. Results suggest a need for more extensive study, including multiyear longitudinal surveys.
Burke
Adam
A
Institute for Holistic Healing Studies/Health Education, San Francisco State Univ., San Francisco, CA 94132, USA. aburke@sfsu.edu
Peper
Erik
E
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D000374:Aggression / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D002652:Child Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D003257:Consumer Product Safety; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D003863:Depression / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D034742:Electronic Mail; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006948:Hyperkinesis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008838:Microcomputers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012307:Risk Factors; D012495:San Francisco / Q000453:epidemiology; D012934:Social Isolation / Q000523:psychology; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D018910:Video Games