Many children show abnormalities in their posture as early as primary school age. Hunched backs, hollow backs, one-sided shoulder heights or heads bent forward can often be observed. The reason often lies in a combination of lack of exercise, sitting for long periods, heavy school bags, time behind the phone/template and a lack of muscular strain. If these postural problems are not recognized and treated early, they can develop into chronic complaints in adulthood. Physiotherapy and osteopathic treatments offer effective and child-friendly solutions.
How can you recognize poor posture in children?
Postural defects do not develop overnight, the development is gradual. Parents often notice:
- Drooping shoulders or a “round” back –
- Head pushed forward
- X- or O-legs
- Lateral differences at the shoulders or pelvis
- Asymmetrical load when standing or walking
- Complaints about “back pain” or rapid fatigue
Motor clumsiness, concentration problems or low self-confidence can also be linked to poor posture.
How do these postural defects arise?
There are various interrelated causes:
- Lack of exercise: Many children spend several hours a day sitting down – at school, doing homework and in front of a screen.
- Weak muscles: The trunk and back muscles in particular are often underdeveloped.
- Early childhood developmental delays: Abnormalities in infancy or toddlerhood (e.g. one-sided positioning, too little crawling phase) can show up later in posture patterns.
- Incorrect loads due to heavy school bags or unfavorable seating furniture
- Psychosocial factors: Insecurity, stress or anxiety often manifest themselves in a stooped or “making oneself small” posture.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapeutic treatment is not just about correcting posture, but above all about experiencing movement, strengthening and body awareness. The earlier we start with targeted exercises, the better postural patterns can be influenced.
Our treatment methods include
- Posture analysis and assessment of findings: child-friendly, playful and with a view to development
- Strengthening exercises for core, shoulder and back muscles
- Coordination and balance training
- Stretching exercises for muscular shortening
- Respiratory therapy for slumped posture
- Everyday tips for back-friendly behavior and ergonomics at school and at home
We actively involve parents, give them exercises to do at home and show them what to look out for in everyday life.
Treating postural problems holistically with osteopathy
Osteopathic treatment complements physiotherapeutic treatment, especially for more complex patterns such as:
- Restricted movement in the spine or pelvis
- Fascial adhesions or muscular imbalances
- Influences of birth trauma or early childhood tension patterns
- Breathing and jaw function as factors influencing body statics
Gentle mobilizations can release tension, activate self-regulation and positively influence posture on various levels.
Attitude is more than appearance
An upright, relaxed posture is not only important for the body, but also has an effect on concentration, self-confidence and emotional well-being. Children who feel stable and secure in their bodies move more, learn more easily and perform differently.
Do you have the impression that your child is developing poor posture? Please make an appointment – we will take the time for an individual assessment and show you treatment options.