Laptops a Pain in the Neck for Students

By Ian Williams


A huge increase in the number of students using laptops has raised concerns that the computers may be causing significant health risks. Of particular concern is the habit many students have of using laptops on the floor, in bed or on their laps, rather than at a desk or table.

Research conducted by University College London for The Ergonomics Society found that 57 per cent of students had experienced aches and pains owing to laptop use, and seven per cent were experiencing pain "a lot of the time". Some 21 per cent of respondents complained of aches and pains in the neck and shoulders, followed by wrist pain (16 per cent), back ache (15 per cent) and eye strain (10 per cent).

The Ergonomics Society warned that many students were not aware that they could be damaging their health by using their laptops on the floor, in bed or on their laps, rather than at a desk.

"University students use their laptops quite differently from school pupils," said ergonomist Rachel Benedyk, of the UCL Interactive Centre, who led the research.

"They want the portability and flexibility of a laptop, but they use them highly intensively in a complex and variable environment. We have shown that this raises ergonomic risks, and we are seeking funding to extend and develop our research in this area."

Associated Link: Full article: Laptops a pain in the neck for students

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