Affiliations: North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC,
USA | The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA | Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Carolyn M. Sommerich, PhD,
Department of Industrial, Welding and Systems Engineering The Ohio State
University, 210 Baker Systems, 1971 Neil Ave., Columbus, OH 43210, USA. Tel.:
+1 614 292 9965; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: A limited number of studies have focused on computer-use-related
MSDs in college students, though risk factor exposure may be similar to that of
workers who use computers. This study examined computer use patterns of college
students, and made comparisons to a group of previously studied computer-using
professionals. 234 students completed a web-based questionnaire concerning
computer use habits and physical discomfort respondents specifically associated
with computer use. As a group, students reported their computer use to be at
least 'Somewhat likely' 18 out of 24 h/day, compared to 12 h for the
professionals. Students reported more uninterrupted work behaviours than the
professionals. Younger graduate students reported 33.7 average weekly computing
hours, similar to hours reported by younger professionals. Students generally
reported more frequent upper extremity discomfort than the professionals.
Frequent assumption of awkward postures was associated with frequent
discomfort. The findings signal a need for intervention, including, training
and education, prior to entry into the workforce. Students are future workers,
and so it is important to determine whether their increasing exposure to
computers, prior to entering the workforce, may make it so they enter
already injured or do not enter their chosen profession due to upper extremity
MSDs.
Keywords: Computer, VDT, college students, musculoskeletal discomfort
