Excessive Use of Smartphone and Tablets May Cause Problems to Toddler's Hands and Fingers

Toddlers who frequently use tablets and smart phones are more susceptible to developing long-term problems with their hands and fingers, according to a recent study.

Experts warned parents who allow their kids to frequently use tablets and smart phones that this may result to damaging their hands and fingers. Lindsay Marzoli, occupational therapist and from Learning and Therapy Corner in Maryland, U.S. says excessive screen time could cause children long-term damage because when they are using touch screen, they are not building up their muscles that they need for writing. "If they are always on the iPad and not actually doing those paper and pencil activities that they should still be doing, those muscles are going to remain weaker. What we're seeing is a lot of children coming in with some motor delays, some decreased muscle strength in areas," said Marzoli. 

Dr. Timothy Doran, a pediatrician at Greater Baltimore Medical Center told CBS Local: "Unlimited use, three to four hours of iPad using on their own - where the parents aren't involved - seems to me that you are flirting with developmental danger." The American Academy of Pediatrics released new guidelines that state children should not be allowed more than two hours screen time a day and that children under the age of two should not spend any time in front of the screen. The American Academy of Pediatrics also state that televisions, computer and tablets should not be in children's rooms.

The research commissioned by Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board suggests younger people face what is called a 'healthcare time bomb' of neck and back pain within the last year. Physiotherapist Lorna Taylor said: "Modern lifestyle and the increase in technology are having detrimental effects on our children's musculoskeletal health and, if not addressed in school and at home now, will have far reaching effects for our children, the future working generation and society."