The doctor told about ways to prevent the development of scoliosis in a child
Scoliosis is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems in children and adolescents. This pathology is characterized by curvature of the spine, which can cause many associated health problems. On September 24, "Izvestia" was told about it by Nikolai Batsalenko, M.D., doctor of traumatology and orthopedics of JSC "Medicine" (clinic of academician Roitberg).
According to him, scoliosis is usually manifested at the age of active growth, up to 17-18 years, and all this time it is important not to stop treatment. Early detection and correction of this pathology can prevent the development of serious complications, warned the doctor.
"Often scoliosis occurs together with flat feet, which aggravates the course of both diseases. Flatfoot can cause additional load on the spine, increasing muscle asymmetry and accelerating the progression of scoliosis. Asymmetrical load distribution leads to curvature of the spine, which in turn can affect blood circulation and cause headaches and other neurological problems," said the specialist.
To prevent the development of scoliosis, it is important to monitor a child's posture, especially during school classes, Batsalenko pointed out.
"Children should sit at the table with a straight back, legs should be bent at the knees at an angle of 90 degrees, and the table and chair should match their height. It is also necessary to pay attention to the weight of the backpack: it should not exceed 10% of the child's body weight, and it should be worn on both straps, which should be adjusted so that the backpack fits the back. Proper load distribution is an important measure to prevent scoliosis and flat feet," the doctor said.
The interlocutor of the publication added that physical education plays a key role in strengthening the back muscles and preventing the development of scoliosis.
"While swimming is often recommended for spinal health, it is not always the best choice. Improper technique can exacerbate the problem. Dancing and equestrian sports are considered more effective. If a child shows the first signs of scoliosis, such as asymmetry of the shoulders or shoulder blades, a doctor should be consulted. Diagnosis of scoliosis includes examination and radiography, which allows you to determine the degree of curvature of the spine. Treatment should be comprehensive and include physical therapy, massage, electrical muscle stimulation, as well as regular check-ups with a specialist," Batsalenko concluded.
In March, Svetlana Semyonova, head of the Department of Modern Recreational Technologies and Adaptive Physical Education at the State University of Education, told Izvestia that poor posture can have negative consequences. Thus, slouching can cause pain in the back, shoulders, lower back, lumbar region, fingers, abdomen, intercostal neuralgia, impaired sensitivity and weakness of arms and legs.
