Children’s Physical Health

Children who are physically active early in life and stay active throughout childhood enjoy many positive benefits to their physical health, building strength, flexibility, endurance and developing and maintaining healthy bones.

Like adults, children can suffer from pain as a result of a variety of lifestyle activities. And like adults, there are number of things that parents and carers can do to prevent issues arising. If your child does complain of back pain, it is important to seek advice from qualified professional, such as an osteopath.

Children are often required to carry bags full of books, PE kits, musical instruments and other equipment to and from school. Investing in a good quality back pack that the child should wear across both shoulders, ideally with a strap across the chest to keep the load close the their body.

Looking down to use smart phones, tablets and laptops for an extended period can pull the back and neck into an unnatural posture, resulting in pain.

Placing limits on the time spent using devices and encouraging regular breaks may help to avoid problems. If your child has to use a laptop, consider purchasing a support that elevates the screen to a height that allows him or her to sit up straight to look at it.

Your child’s back pain may benefit from osteopathic treatment. Using gentle manual therapy an osteopath will help to resolve any stresses and strains that are affecting their body and relieve their pain. They can also provide lifestyle advice that may help to prevent problems returning, or to help avoid them.