Does spending too much time on the computer pose a health risk for my child

"Spending many hours on the computer can lead to repetitive stress injuries," explains Donna Gatewood, MD, who is board certified in family practice at Baptist Medical Associates.

Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) are a group of conditions generally caused by placing too much stress on a joint. RSI in kids may occur from heavy computer or video game use, playing musical instruments, or the repetitive motion of sports.

By taking some easy preventive measures, you can help your child avoid repetitive stress injuries altogether. One important step you can take to prevent RSI is to remind your child to sit straight in the chair. Slouching or crouching over the keyboard can place undue stress upon your child’s neck, back, or spine and this can lead to a repetitive stress injury.

Remind your child that pounding on the keyboard is unnecessary. Using a light touch to type is best. Also, be sure that your child isn’t reaching for the keys; if so, the keyboard should be moved closer to her.

"In addition, your child should maintain a 90-degree angle between the wrists and elbows and the upper part of her arms," Dr. Gatewood says.

Taking frequent breaks is also an important step in preventing repetitive stress injuries. Your child may lose track of time and forget to take breaks, so it’s your job to make sure she rests her eyes, back, wrists and neck every half hour.

"Many times, repetitive stress injury is caused by using the wrong tool for the job. Because most computer systems are designed for an adult, you can help your child avoid repetitive stress injuries by fitting chairs, monitors, input devices, footrests and keyboards, to your child’s size," Dr. Gatewood adds.