The Prevalence of Signs of Median Nerve Compression Among College Students in Kinesiology
The use of information and communication technologies such as desktop, laptop and
notebook computers as well as mobile phones has increased dramatically over the last decade
and spans all age groups.
Along with the increase in personal computer use, has been the
increase in the number of computers in the workplace.
In October 2003, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 77 million persons
were using a computer at work. In fact, computers and computer workstations
(video display terminals-VDT’s) have become commonplace in the
work environment over the past 20 years.
The increased use of these devices has resulted in reports in the literature
linking computer users to an increased risk of upper extremity Musculoskeletal disorders
(MSD) resulting from poor postures and working techniques.
Prolonged keyboard use in non-neutral working postures with
a lack of forearm support increases the risk of MSD4 while forearm
support during keyboard and mouse use has been shown to decrease neck
and shoulder muscle activity.
Because computers are so widespread, even relatively small
risks associated with their use could have important public health implications.
Confirming the widespread use of computers, Computer Industry
Almanac released a statement in February, 2012 indicating that there
were nearly 311 million Personal Computers in use in the USA
The Prevalence of Signs of Median Nerve Compression Among College Students in Kinesiology
Sport Exerc Med Open J. 2014; 1(1): 8-13. doi: 10.17140/SEMOJ-1-102