Spinal and Postural Problems in Childhood.

Spinal problems and back pain are suffered by children as well as adults. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine - the cause is usually unknown and can be mild or severe. Mild to moderate cases may respond well to Osteopathic treatment to release and rebalance the spine. Posture itself is a complex mix of genetics, habits & emotional factors but some developing childhood postures can lead to back and joint pain.

Your Osteopath will perform an in depth analysis of your child's posture followed by treatment for any areas of restriction enabling growth in a more upright position. You may also be given advice and exercises.

Good Posture - some tips for parents:

Encourage good posture as early as possible - young children may listen (teenagers may not!). Going through the crawling phase in early life is also a determiner of future posture, strength, balance and co-ordination. So try to encourage your child to crawl and not miss out on this phase.

Get your child a rucksack type bag to wear on their back for carrying heavy school books etc. Avoid heavy one sided carrying.

If your child spends time on the computer at home make sure they have a good chair and that the desk is the correct height - your Osteopath can give you ergonomic advice if needed. Sit up straight and don't slump.

Encourage your child to stretch before and after exercise - important with the growing body and probably not done much at school.

If you notice that your child is adopting asymmetrical postures
(eg. habitually standing with one knee bent or one shoulder dropped), or doesn't seem to be able to stand up straight, go and see an Osteopath - sometimes children have mild spinal restrictions and simply can't 'stand up straight'. Early treatment is a wonderful investment against back pain and poor posture later in life.