Poor posture is a common issue among kids, especially high school students. In fact, nearly all high schoolers show some signs of back problems during check-ups. Teachers do their best to remind them to sit properly at their desks, but kids can’t stay in the same position for an entire class.
Some children are born with scoliosis, a condition that develops before birth for reasons we don’t fully understand. Other medical issues like polio, arthritis, traumas, and rickets can also lead to scoliosis. However, only a small number of children are born with it—about one in two thousand. Many parents worry about their child’s body asymmetry or slouching, but this can often be just an individual characteristic.
It’s important not to confuse bad posture with scoliosis. Scoliosis can be influenced by rapid growth in teenagers and hormonal changes, which are beyond our control. On the other hand, poor posture from incorrect desk positions or walking habits doesn’t cause scoliosis, but it can lead to other posture issues. A child’s posture is also influenced by their body structure and personality; for example, a sad or depressed child might tend to hunch over.
Preventing and correcting bad posture is crucial, and it can be done. The main causes of bad posture in children include:
– A sedentary lifestyle
– Sleeping in the wrong position
– Overusing certain muscles
– An improper diet
– Too much physical strain
Some sports, like tennis and badminton, which involve asymmetric movements, can also affect posture.
To avoid these issues, children should have a balanced diet, engage in physical activity, sleep well (preferably on an orthopedic mattress), and have a well-organized workspace.
If parents notice their child’s posture is off, they should see an orthopedist. Online resources can’t diagnose these issues accurately. Only a doctor can tell whether a problem is due to poor posture or something like scoliosis. Early diagnoses might be tentative, and the child will need ongoing monitoring. Orthopedists might suggest physical therapy, massages, or certain sports. Swimming and team sports are usually great for kids with posture issues.
Specific exercises prescribed by an orthopedist can effectively correct bad posture if done regularly. Doing these exercises with your child can help solve the problem over time.