Over 80% of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. But children are also prone to developing back pain. Children who regularly experience lower back pain can grow into adults who experience ongoing, chronic pain. It’s thus important to take the necessary steps to strengthen and support your child’s spinal system while they are young.
3 major causes of back pain in children
There are at least three major causes of back pain in children, all of which can be avoided or at least minimized with supportive care:
1. Carrying heavy weights
Make sure your child doesn’t carry an especially heavy bag to and from school. If there is sport or other equipment needed during the day, rather drop it off yourself. Many younger children and toddlers who are discovering increased mobility and control of their bodies for the first time are inclined to pick up heavy objects and carry them around. Try to avoid this and switch with less potentially damaging playthings while they are distracted.
2. Lack of exercise
It’s crucial that children are able to move and use their bodies as they develop, strengthening their cores and other muscle groups. A strong core is essential for good posture. Making sure that your child gets to play on jungle gyms and other age-appropriate physical equipment will help to create a stronger, healthier back.
3. Poor posture
A strong core does go a long way to improving posture, but other aspects can affect posture such as alignment of the spine as well as movement habits. If your child tends to slouch at the table or adopts another pose that could be doing harm, gently persuade them to sit up straight. If necessary, send your child to a movement therapist who can help to foster the correct posture that will keep the back strong and properly aligned and supported.
Back pain can be alleviated and sometimes completely eliminated with the help of supportive treatment. Even so, it is better to never develop chronic back pain at all. Be aware of the signs of back pain and act if your children are showing any. If any combination of the three common causes above are to blame, take action. Consult your paediatrician if you are concerned there could be something more serious underlying any pain your child reports.
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