Postural disorders in children

One shoulder higher than the other, asymmetry of the upper back, tiring easily — these may not be just habits.

1

Signs parents should watch for

  • One shoulder is lower than the other
  • Curvature in the pelvic area and the rib arches
  • Neck tilt and postural disorder
  • Prominence on the upper back (scapular winging)
  • Loss of appetite, tiring easily
  • Tiredness after school lessons
  • Complaints of low back, neck or leg pain
2

Can a heavy school bag cause scoliosis?

Yes — especially when it is carried incorrectly. If a child carries a heavy bag that is not suited to their age and weight on one shoulder every day, and walks leaning forward, the spine is loaded on one side and the balance between the muscles is disrupted.

  • The bag should weigh no more than 10–15% of the child's body weight
  • It should be carried on both shoulders
  • A child's posture should be checked regularly
  • A specialist assessment at an early stage is very important
3

What should parents do to keep scoliosis from progressing?

  • Have your child seen by an orthopedist or rehabilitation specialist — it is important to know the cause and the grade
  • Daily movement and varied activity: swimming, gymnastics, dancing
  • The workspace should be matched to height: desk, chair, and monitor at eye level
  • The bag and shoes should be light, symmetrical and well supported
  • Regular specialist monitoring, especially during growth periods (ages 10–14)
  • Back and breathing exercises — under the supervision of a rehabilitation specialist
  • Attention to posture, breathing and sleep — a medium-firm mattress, and not sleeping in the same position every night
  • Emotional state matters too — support and confidence help a child “stand tall”
Postural symmetry: comparison with the plumb lineSymmetricAsymmetric
The plumb line should pass through the center of the head, and the shoulder and pelvic lines should be perpendicular to it. On the right, shoulder and pelvic asymmetry is shown in red — this is one of the initial screening signs of scoliosis.

Methods we use

Spine and posture analysis

How the body stands, moves and distributes load tells us a great deal about many functional changes.

Therapeutic exercise (remedial exercise therapy)

Treatment alone is not enough — movement matters too. The best results come from consistent exercise.

Pediatric massage

Normalizes tense and shortened muscle groups and has a positive effect on immunity.

Schroth therapy

A specialized breathing and posture therapy used in the treatment of scoliosis.

Exercise and fitness groups

Twice a week — a dedicated program for both children and women.

Recommended reading on this topic

Related conditions

Sources and further reading

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