Like adults, children can suffer from back pain as a result of a variety of lifestyle activities. If your child does complain of back pain, it is important to seek advice from qualified professional, An osteopath can help to establish the cause of the problem and will provide advice on treatment, or refer you for further examinations if required.
Like adults, there are number of things that parents and carers can do to prevent issues arising in the first place. Some helpful tips are listed below.
Like adults, there are number of things that parents and carers can do to prevent issues arising in the first place. Some helpful tips are listed below.
1) Good school bags
Children are often required to carry bags full of books, PE kits, musical instruments and other equipment to and from school. Parents should try to limit the weight of school bags as much as possible and invest in a good quality back pack that the child should wear across both shoulders, ideally with a strap across the chest to keep the load close the their body. Packing the bag with the heaviest items (such as laptops and heavy books) closest to child’s body, will also make carrying more comfortable and less likely to strain the muscles of the back.
2) Limit Screen time
Looking down to use smart phones, tablets and laptops for an extended period can pull the back and neck into an unnatural posture, resulting in pain. Placing limits on the time spent using devices and encouraging regular breaks may help to avoid problems. If your child has to use a laptop for homework, Try not to allow them to sit in the position shown in the picture below. Creating a proper work station that elevates the screen to a height that allows him or her to sit up straight to look at it will help to reduce the time spent in a slouched position. A separate key board at a comfortable height (ideally keeping the elbows comfortably at 90 degrees) can also help to improve their seated posture and prevent neck and shoulder discomfort. A decent chair that supports them in an upright position is also beneficial.
3) Regular Exercise
A sedentary lifestyle is known to contribute to the risk of developing back pain, as well as contributing to obesity. Regular physical activity helps to keep the core muscles that support the spine strong and maintain flexibility, which will help to avoid back pain. Encourage lots of active play, walking, running, swimming, cycling etc to keep your child fit and healthy.
4) The correct bed and pillow
Good quality sleep is vital for both physical and mental development. Make sure that your child has a good sized comfortable bed with a firm mattress and a pillow that supports their head without lifting it too high.
Osteopathic Treatment for your child's back pain
Your child’s back pain may benefit from osteopathic treatment. Using gentle manual therapy an osteopath will help to resolve any stresses and strains that are affecting their body and relieve their pain. They can also provide lifestyle advice that may help to prevent the problem from coming back.
About Me
My name is Hannah Ramsay, I am an Osteopath based at The Osteopathy and Injury Management Centre in Abshot Country Club, Titchfield, Hampshire. During consultations, I will take the time to understand you as a patient. Everyone presents with their own unique combination of symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. Understanding you helps me to make an accurate diagnosis of the causes of your pain or any lack of function that you may be experiencing rather than solely addressing the site of the condition. Together we will formulate a treatment plan to help you to get the best out of your body.
For any help, clarification or advice feel free to call me on 07908 415 376 or leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can. To book an appointment call 07908415376 or use my contact form on my website www.hbosteopathy and don't forget to ask for Hannah
For any help, clarification or advice feel free to call me on 07908 415 376 or leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can. To book an appointment call 07908415376 or use my contact form on my website www.hbosteopathy and don't forget to ask for Hannah
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