Kids, Parents and Posture

By: Dr. Alan Rosenthal

Standing up straight is important for everyone; however it is more crucial to develop the habits of good posture in childhood. Many adults with chronic back pain can trace the problem to years of bad posture habits or injuries in childhood. Therefore, it is important to start proper spinal maintenance at an early age.

Children and Spinal Injury

Because they are growing and more active, children may be at a greater risk for injury to the back and spine. There is a significantly high risk associated with sports and recreation. According to studies, more than 1/3 of all high school athletes sustain some type of physical injury. Children who carry heavy backpacks often create postural problems and regions of spinal dysfunction. Many childhood stresses and traumas lead to larger spinal and nerve dysfunction later in life.

Benefits of Posture Checks

Children and teens with Scoliosis commonly developed it from a lack of proper spinal maintenance. Studies have shown that children who have taken care of their spines with regular care have shown to have over five times less health problems overall than the average child. They have fewer occurrences of scoliosis, ear infections, growing pains and overall health problems. Therefore, having your children’s posture checked and monitored as they age is important

Affects of Poor Posture

People who choose to neglect regular posture checks may risk a decrease in quality of life as they age. Poor posture extracts a high price as you age because it can:

1. Limit your range of motion – Muscles can be permanently shortened or stretched when a slumped over position becomes a normal position.
2. Organs in your body become less effective – Lungs work at a lower capacity, meaning less oxygen to the body, the digestive system has a harder time functioning, and quite commonly cardiovascular health is compromised.
3. Mental/emotional state can be affected – People who are less capable of supporting their body properly have less energy, have a harder time enjoying their day, and are more commonly less active in life.

Optimal Health = Optimum Function

Whole Health Family Chiropractic in Thousand Oaks, California has a team of highly specialized health professionals that will help you reach your Health and Wellness goals. Chiropractic wellness care improves your body’s natural ability to heal and enhances your overall quality of life. Imagine living a healthy and holistic lifestyle free of asthma, low back pain, ear infections, menstrual pain, headaches, ADHD, and many others. Take the first step toward better living and contact us today at (805) 449-0061.

Dr. Alan Rosenthal also dedicates his time to health awareness and education within his community. He offers free lectures and workshops to businesses and organizations. If you would like to schedule Dr. Rosenthal to speak at your next event or to view his list of chiropractic lecture topics, please go to Free Lecture Topics.