ANN/THE STAR – Parents frequently reprimand their children when they slouch, and it’s not without cause, as inadequate posture can harm their overall health.
It is crucial to promote correct posture in your child because inadequate posture can result in various health issues.
Poor posture can cause:
– Abnormal pressure on joint surfaces, which can lead to bone and joint diseases like arthritis.
– Misalignment of the musculoskeletal system (postural deviation), neck/back muscle spasms and pain, overuse injuries, and nerve compression.
– Problems with digestion and restricted respiration.
Good posture can:
– Align bones and joints, allowing muscles to function optimally.
– Reduce abnormal wear and tear of joint surfaces, as well as excessive stress on ligaments.
– This can also reduce back, neck and shoulder pain.
– Maintain optimal circulation, digestion, and respiration.
Here are some tips on cultivating good posture habits in children:
USE APPROPRIATELY-SIZED FURNITURE
Furniture should ideally accommodate the size and height of your child.
When children sit with their bottoms positioned at the back of the chair, their feet should be able to touch the floor, and the backrest should provide sufficient support to the lower back and shoulder blades. If their feet are too short, then place a box of the appropriate height beneath the table for their feet to rest on comfortably.
USE AN APPROPRIATE BACKPACK
Backpacks should fit the child properly, with the heavier items positioned close to the child’s back.
Try to keep the backpack as light as possible.
ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Ensure your child is physically active throughout the day. Swimming in particular, has been shown to strengthen the body’s core muscles, leading to good posture.
LIMIT SEDENTARY ACTIVITIES
Prolonged sitting should be limited. If necessary, encourage using different positions during
these activities.
ENCOURAGE TAKING ACTIVE BREAKS
When doing activities that require a lot of sitting time (eg homework, watching television), encourage the child to take breaks by walking, moving or stretching.
Some parents might consider sending their child to a chiropractor if they complain of aches and pains related to poor posture.
Some studies claim that it can be used as a complementary treatment for certain conditions. However, there is limited evidence available.
Consult your family doctor first to assess if chiropractic treatment is right for your child.
Posture can influence the health and development of your child.
Therefore, instilling good habits early can help reinforce good posture in your children, and help them stand and walk confidently. – Dr Ferdhany Muhamad Effendi
