A comparison of carpal tunnel syndrome between digital and paper textbook users in elementary schools

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There are advantages to using digital textbooks, but also health concerns yet to be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the use of digital textbooks' effects on carpal tunnel, considered one of the potential health risks in students using digital textbooks. METHODS: Data were obtained from 43 elementary school students in the sixth grade, selected from two groups who had used digital and paper textbooks, respectively. To assess carpal tunnel function, this study performed median motor nerve and median sensory nerve conduction studies. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the groups, indicating that there were no functional differences related to carpal tunnel syndrome between the groups. CONCLUSION: Usage of digital textbook is expanding nationwide in the Republic of Korea. There is no short-term risk of carpal tunnel syndrome in this population of elementary school students.