12 Feb Back Pain In Children: What To Do
Adults often find themselves having to deal with back pain and such complaints can manifest themselves increasingly as we get older – but back pain can also affect children, as well, so it’s important to listen to your child if they come to you with symptoms or if they’re in pain.
Remember that back pain is, in fact, common in children, especially when they reach adolescence and this can be down to problems with posture, carrying heavy school bags regularly or not exercising properly (York Teaching Hospital, therapy services guide).
If your child does start complaining of back pain that is worsening, it’s important to take them to see a doctor, especially if they have other symptoms and warning signs, such as a high temperature, night pain, unexplained weight loss, weakness in the legs and arms, difficulty walking, numbness or pain going down one or both legs, for example.
Common reasons as to why your child might be experiencing back pain include posture problems and sports injuries, and it’s important to identify the cause so the right kind of treatment can be applied.
Back pain is apparently more common in girls than boys and in children over the age of 12. Obesity can also be a risk factor, as can sedentary lifestyles, such as sitting at the computer a lot or watching a lot of TV – so if you know your child is not as active as they could be, it might be worth trying to make a few changes in this regard.
How do you treat back pain in children?
In the past, it was thought that bed rest was the best way to cure back pain but now it’s acknowledged that keeping active can aid recovery – although it’s important to ensure you only do what you are physically able to and you don’t push yourself too far too hard. PE lessons may have to be avoided for a time, for example.
Back pain can also be reduced by doing some stretches and simple exercises. If you’re unsure as to what your child should be doing, get in touch with Camberley osteopaths OsteoVision and we will be able to advise you on what your child can do to help relieve their symptoms.
What does poor posture look like?
Posture is the position your body is when you’re standing or sitting and it’s important to maintain good posture, so you don’t put any stress and strain on your spine. Signs of poor posture include hyperextended knees, rounded shoulders, a poking chin, and the pelvis tilted forwards.
Neck and back pain can manifest themselves as a result of poor posture (such as leaning over a desk for a long time), so make sure your child keeps their feet on the floor when doing schoolwork, with their bottom as far back in the seat as it will go. Also make sure they’re carrying their school bag using both shoulder straps, so the weight is distributed evenly.