Motor Performance In Upper Limbs Among Regular Computer Users

Prevalence of risk factors affecting motor performance, symptomatic neck and shoulder musculoskeletal disorders among computer users are on the rise. This study was done on regular computer users to assess the impact of computerization on motor performance, administrative and supportive staff of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belgaum. Objectives of the present study were to assess motor performance of upper limbs using measurements of Bimanual co-ordination, hand grip strength in hand muscles and nerve conduction velocities in both median nerves and to determine the prevalence of associated symptoms in upper limb, musculoskeletal disorders related to regular computer usage and also the risk factors that may affect the motor performance of upper limbs in regular computer users. After meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the resulting eligible 75 participants were enrolled for the study and administered with consent and pre-tested questionnaire. Motor performance of upper limbs were assessed by using measurements of bi-manual co-ordination, time and error in completing the task was recorded and handgrip strength in hand muscles, nerve conduction velocity in both median nerves was assessed by Neurocare TM 2000 computerized electromyography. The results of the present study indicate that muscular skeletal disorders and visual problems are common among regular computer users, with increased usage of computer work in hours per week, handgrip strength decreases, efficiency index for bimanual co-ordination decreases with increasing age in these individuals. Nerve conduction velocity in the right hand for median nerve is less and in the long run could lead to carpel tunnel syndrome by affecting median nerve.