Causes of Repetitive Stress Injuries in Kids

Many people are aware of repetitive stress injuries. They know that using the computer too often and by playing sports repetitively can result in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

However, very few parents realize their children may be at risk for repetitive stress injuries. Simple tasks that parents allow their children to engage in can lead to repetitive stress injuries for their kids. Take a look at the three main causes of RSI without you really even being aware of it.

Computer Use & Kids

Almost every aspect of life in America is taken over by computers. Almost every family has a computer in their home. Even if the children are not exposed to computer at home due to unavailability, they are exposed to computers at school.

Being exposed to computers is not a bad thing for children. Actually, children can gain lot of knowledge through computers. They can use them to research on the Web, write papers, and prepare presentations. Computers are a great teaching tool for teachers as well.

However, kids can be at risk for repetitive stress injury if they use computers for prolonged period. Most of the children who end up with computer related repetitive stress injury are those that use their home computers for hours at a time.

Most of the use is not school related. Many kids love to play games on the computer, surf the Web, and even chat with their friends online. These activities are often engaged in for hours by kids.

Sports & Kids

Children love to play sports and parents generally have no reservations in getting the kids on the fields. However, when you allow your child to take part in a sport that requires a repetitive motion, such as tennis, you could find out all about children and repetitive stress injuries.

The thing to remember is that your child should not practice one single motion for more than an hour a day. Sure, they may want to be a superstar athlete and you may want them to grow to be a professional.

However, their health is more important. You should talk with his or her doctor if you find that your child is showing signs of repetitive stress injury (RSI).

Video Game Use & Kids

Another thing that children love to do is play video games. Parents spend thousands of dollars each year buying their children the latest video game systems, games, and accessories.

However, you are allowing your children to play them constantly by upon buying these things, you could be inviting the risk of repetitive stress injury into your child’s life. Playing for too long at one time results in video game related repetitive stress injuries in kids.

For instance, some kids will sit in front of the television and play their video games for four or more hours at a time, with rarely any breaks. If you cater to their requests, they may ask you to bring them drinks and food right to their side.