Teens, Computers, Text Messaging & Repetitive Stress Injury

Text messaging is a way for teens to communicate faster with their friends through their cell phones. Repetitive Stress Injury or RSI is now known to be associated with text messaging as well as using the mouse on the computer for long periods of time.

Repetitive Stress Injury are combinations of conditions which come about by a person placing far too much stress on their joints by either sitting in front of a computer too long, video game playing and by sending a lot of text messages daily. Here are the conditions that can arise relating from Repetitive Stress Injury.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, Cervical radiculopathy, Epicondylitis, Ganglion cyst, Refelx sympathetic dystrophy and Tendonitis.

The history of text messaging goes back in time beginning in the late-1980s to the early 1990s. The very first text message that was sent by a computer to a handset, was way back in 1991. By the year 2000, there was only less that 20 billion text messages at this time that were sent and this was worldwide. By the year 2001, text messaging was the "in" thing to do and the amount of text messages that were being sent out were over 250 billion. At the start of text messaging, it seemed to only hold the interests of teenagers & preteens because it gave them and their friends a much quicker & more private way to communicate among one another. Now everyone from preteens, teenagers and adults all the way to age 80 something are sending out a text message.

Here are some possible signs that can be related to RSI:

Pain in both thumbs

Tingling and/or numbness in the hands

Dull pain in the elbows

Pain in the neck & shoulders

Fingers hurt & feel achy

Even though just a small percentage of kids can get RSI, parents can help to deter RSI in their children by taking the necessary steps needed to ensure that their surroundings in and around their home computer suit their personally needs.

There are some things you can do to help deter these symptoms of RSI:

Keep your feet placed flat on the floor

Keep your back straight when sitting down

Give your hands a rest at least every 30 minutes in between texting

Give your hands & fingers some exercises everyday by moving them up & down.

Seek professional medical advice from the family physician immediately if you notice any change in your child's normal behavior.

Please visit www.education.com for more information on RSI.