ITKids : variation in muscle activity among schoolchildren when using different information and communication technologies

Introduction: Children use various information and communication technologies (ICT), including computers. Low variation in muscle activity associated with computer use is a proposed risk factor for the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in adults, but the effect of ICT on variation in children's muscle activity is unknown. This study aimed to quantify variation of upper body muscle activity among schoolchildren during New ICT (electronic-based), Old ICT (paper-based), and Non ICT tasks. Methods: Nine children (mean [sd] age 9.1 [0.3] years) were observed over 10-12 h, while muscle activity in the right and left upper trapezius and right wrist extensors was measured using surface electromyography (EMG). ICT used was matched to EMG data. EMG variation was characterised by an index based on the standard deviation of the cell values of the Exposure Variation Analysis matrix (EVA sd), and 10-90th percentile range of the Amplitude Probability Distribution Function (APDF(90-10)). Results: There were no significant differences in mean values or variation of right and left upper trapezius between ICT types, however right wrist extensor EMG values were greater during Non ICT. Right wrist extensor muscle activity was most variable during Non ICT tasks. Discussion: Similarities in EMG values of upper trapezius during New and Old ICT tasks may have been influenced by high work surface heights providing bilateral forearm support. Similarities in trapezius muscle variation may also have been influenced by children's tendency to fidget on task regardless of ICT used. More research is needed to determine if children's use of different ICT impacts on their health