Affiliations: School of Physiotherapy, Curtin University of
Technology, Perth, WA, Australia
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Professor Leon Straker, School of
Physiotherapy, Curtin University of Technology, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA 6845,
Australia. Tel.: +61 8 9266 3634; Fax: +61 8 9266 3699; E-mail:
L.Straker@curtin.edu.au
Abstract: Children and young adults are the most frequent users of computers.
Whilst guidelines for adults have been based on research, available guidelines
for children have had to assume children and adults are similar due to limited
research evidence derived specifically from children. This study aimed to
compare the posture and muscle activity of children with young adults. Thirty
six adults aged 18–25 years, 24 children aged 10–12 years and 18 children
aged 5–6 years participated in a series of laboratory studies. Upper body
postures were measured using a 3D motion analysis system. Muscle activity of
bilateral cervical erector spinae and upper trapezius muscles was assessed.
Mean and variation were examined, the latter using both amplitude range and
Exposure Variation Analysis matrix standard deviation. Mean postures assumed by
children tended to show more spinal flexion and spinal asymmetry than adults.
However children also tended to show more variation in posture and muscle
activity. These findings suggest that whilst there may be differences in how
children and adults use computers, basic principles of encouraging appropriate
postures and variation should apply for both children and adults.
