Good posture is about so much more than being able to hold your head up high. It can affect many different areas of a school child’s health and lead to discomfort, fatigue and long-term musculoskeletal problems. We know how important it is for kids to get outdoors and run around, however there’s no denying that the past few decades have seen a shift towards a much more sedentary lifestyle. Slouched over school tablets, eyes glued to gaming screens, TVs blaring in front of them… it’s no wonder posture-related issues are on the rise. Physiotherapy offers an effective solution to this growing problem. Through targeted interventions, physiotherapists can help schoolchildren correct their posture, build strength and flexibility, and ensure healthier futures for young students.

Poor posture in schoolchildren is a growing concern that has come about thanks to a number of different factors. The rise of technology and digital devices has led to changes in how children spend their time. Whether it's using smartphones, tablets, or computers for schoolwork, gaming, or social media, children are spending more time than ever in a seated position, often slouched or hunched over their screens.

Another common cause of poor posture in schoolchildren is the weight of their school bags. With textbooks, laptops, and various supplies, many students carry backpacks that are far too heavy for their growing bodies. And what’s more, many aren’t even wearing them correctly. Some are slung over one shoulder or hanging too low, which simply exacerbates the problem. This uneven distribution of weight forces children to adopt awkward postures, which may cause pain in the back, neck and shoulders.

Poor posture hurts! As an adult, we understand the discomfort experienced when we sit hunched at our desks for too long. But the long-term impact of this extends beyond that initial pain. When left unaddressed, poor posture can affect a child's physical, emotional and academic development. One of the most concerning long-term effects of poor posture is the development of chronic musculoskeletal problems. Poor posture can lead to permanent changes in the spine and musculoskeletal system.

• Spinal Problems: Prolonged poor posture can contribute to the development of spinal issues, such as kyphosis (excessive rounding of the upper back).
• Joint and Muscle Imbalances: Poor posture can also lead to imbalances in muscle strength and joint function. This can increase the risk of developing musculoskeletal pain, including chronic back and neck pain.
• Reduced Flexibility and Mobility: Over time, poor posture can result in tightness in specific muscle groups and joints, limiting flexibility and overall mobility.

Poor posture can also have a big impact on a child’s ability to concentrate in the classroom. After all, it can be difficult to concentrate when your body is uncomfortable. If a child is experiencing pain or discomfort, this can take the focus away from the lesson and lead to poor performance over time. It can also make children less likely to want to take part in physical activity, such as sports, or lunchtime fun with friends, due to the pain.

Physiotherapy plays an important role in addressing poor posture in schoolchildren.

1. Assessment and Diagnosis: The first step is a comprehensive assessment. Physiotherapists take a look at the child’s posture, muscle imbalances, flexibility and any pain they are experiencing. This assessment helps identify the specific causes of poor posture, such as muscle weakness, tightness, or more.
2. Corrective Exercises and Strengthening: Physiotherapists use a variety of exercises to target weak muscles.
   Core strengthening: The core muscles play a role in maintaining good posture. Physiotherapists often prescribe exercises like the plank, pelvic tilts and bridging to strengthen these muscles.
   Upper back and shoulder strengthening: Exercises that target the upper back and shoulder muscles help correct rounded shoulders and forward head posture.
   Lower back strengthening: Strengthening the muscles of the lower back can help prevent slouching. Physiotherapists often recommend exercises like back extensions and bird dogs.
3. Stretching and Flexibility Training: Along with strengthening exercises, physiotherapists use stretching and flexibility to address muscle tightness and improve mobility.
   Chest and shoulder stretches: Tight chest muscles can pull the shoulders forward, resulting in rounded shoulders and forward head posture. Physiotherapists may recommend chest stretches, such as doorway stretches, to open up the chest and relieve this.
   Hip flexor stretches: Tight hip flexors, often caused by prolonged sitting, can pull the pelvis forward and affect spinal alignment. Stretching the hip flexors through exercises like lunges or the pigeon stretch can help.
   Hamstring stretches: Tight hamstrings can lead to a posterior pelvic tilt, which can contribute to slouching. Physiotherapists may recommend hamstring stretches to improve flexibility.

It is also important to educate children about proper posture and body awareness. Physiotherapists teach children how to sit, stand and move correctly, helping them develop habits that promote good posture in their daily activities. The goal is to help children become more conscious of their posture throughout the day, whether they are at school, at home, or during exercise.

Addressing poor posture in schoolchildren is an essential step toward ensuring their long-term health, comfort and overall well-being. By understanding the causes of poor posture and implementing effective physiotherapy strategies, we can help children build healthier habits that not only correct their posture but also support their growth and development.