Irregular posture is a problem that not only looks unaesthetic but also causes health problems.
Irregular posture is often considered a disease of children and adolescents, and as many as 30% of minors are diagnosed with it. Postural problems are most common during the school years, when children spend more time sitting on the school bench, doing homework or drawing. Often they do all this sitting upright rather than sitting straight, and in some cases even lying down on the ground, arguing that it is more fun for them. However, this way of doing things is extremely harmful and deforms the child's posture.
It is important to note that correct posture is not inborn. A baby is born without spinal curves. It is only when the head starts to move that the first neck bends, while the lumbar bends start to form when the child tries to stand up and eventually starts to walk. This means that an irregular posture is acquired. It is also important that there are certain factors which are particularly
that are particularly conducive to the formation of an irregular posture:
- uncomfortable (too soft, too hard, too small) bed;
- furniture that does not match the child's height, which can have a negative impact on the formation of the spine;
- prolonged sitting in a reclined position;
- prolonged standing while reclining;
- insufficient movement;
- overexertion;
- working on the floor instead of at a desk;
- carrying too heavy objects, such as backpacks;
- weak muscles in the child;
Watching your child sit, stand or run at the table can help you to spot signs of irregular posture early on. It is important to note that sleeping position is also very important for correct posture. Consult a paediatric osteopath and make sure you have the right bedding and pillows for sleeping.
The following should be taken into account:
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the position of the head, whether it is tilted to one side or the other;
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whether the shoulders and shoulder blades are at the same height;
- whether the legs are the same length;
- the pelvic bones are at the same height;
- the pelvis is not protruding;
- the thorax is not sunken;
Do you want to help your children sit up straighter? Sitting up straight for the whole lesson at school is really difficult for a child. We therefore recommend that you practise at home and teach your child the rules of sitting correctly.
If your child's posture is irregular, it is best to sit in the middle row so that he or she does not lean over and looks straight at the blackboard. When sitting, the child's feet should reach the floor and the table should be a couple of centimetres higher than the height of the lowered arm (when seated). Notebooks should be placed 30 centimetres away from the writer and the notebook itself should be turned at a 30 degree angle when writing. Walking with a book or notebook on your head is a good way to develop good posture, so sometimes you can play a game at home that will keep the book on your head for longer, and take a walk with your child.
And yet, if you notice that your child is suffering from an irregular posture, you should contact your family doctor or paediatrician, who will make a referral to the right specialist. If you don't want to wait and go back and forth between doctors, you can make an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon right away, where you and your child will receive comprehensive support.
Let's move forward together!
Pes Planus
