Three Ways Kids Can Get RSI

Most adults know all about repetitive stress injuries. They know that you can get conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome from using the computer too often and by playing sports repetitively. 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 stress injuries for their kids. Take a look at these three ways kids can get RSI without you really even being aware of it.

Computer Use & Kids

With computers taking over almost every aspect of life in America, almost every family has a computer in their home. Even if a family doesn't have a computer in their home, the truth is that kids are exposed to computers at school. Being exposed to computers is not a bad thing for children. In fact, children can learn a lot from 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, when it comes to prolonged computer use, kids can be at risk for repetitive stress injury. 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.

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, upon buying these things and allowing your children to play them constantly, you could be inviting the risk of repetitive stress injury into your child's life.

The way that most kids suffer from video game related repetitive stress injuries is because they play for too long at one time. For example, 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.

Sports & Kids

Children love to play sports and parents usually have no reservations in getting the kids on the fields. However, when you allow your child to participate 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. If you find that your child is showing signs of repetitive stress injury (RSI) you should talk with his or her doctor about the symptoms.