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OTs worry about children overusing gadgets

Rehab Private Practice Alert, July 12, 2006

Children are using electronic gadgets at a younger age than ever before, according to a study by the NPD Group, reported the Austin (TX) American Statesman.

The study showed that, on average, children are using video games, cell phones, and portable music players by age seven, televisions by age four, and desktop computers by age six.

Some OTs worry that the early use could cause ergonomics problems in children, according to the American Statesman.

A Boston University study showed that 40% of sixth-graders using computers on a regular basis complained of muscular-skeletal problems.

OTs recommend moderation, good posture, and "stretch breaks" every 15 to 30 minutes when children use video games or computers.

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