What Parents Need To Know About Their Child’s Posture
By: Dr. Walter Salubro
“Sit up straight.” “Don’t slouch.” These may have been the words of your mom or dad as you were growing up.
Somehow parents innately know that poor posture is not normal and that poor posture is a problem. But why are parents correct to be so concerned about their child’s posture?
Before discussing why poor posture is a problem, let’s look at what normal standing posture should be …
Normal Posture
Looking at the body from the front view, these body parts should line up in a normal standing position: mid forehead (midpoint between eyes) lines up midpoint of the upper lip, the midpoint of the chin, the midpoint of the sternum (chest bone) and the midpoint of pelvis).
Looking at the body from the side view, these body parts should line up: the ear is in line with the mid shoulder, the mid hip and the ankle.
Also see: “Do A Posture Self Test”
What Causes Poor Posture In Children?
Here are some of the most common reasons for the development of poor posture in children:
- Heavy backpacks
- Sitting / doing homework
- Using laptops / computers
- Video games
- Watching TV
- Using handheld devices (mp3 players, cell phones, tablets, gaming devices).
- Poor sleeping habits (eg. using big fluffy pillows, stomach sleeping position).
- Prolonged standing positions
- Carrying handbags / backpack on one shoulder
- Injuries / accidents
Why Is Poor Posture A Problem?
Poor posture is a problem because can impact the spine and put strain on muscles, bones, discs and nerves. An optimal spine free of strain and stress is essential to optimal health. Why? Because the spine is responsible for protecting the spinal cord.
The spinal cord is the connection between your brain and the rest of your body parts and organ systems. A shift in posture can cause a shift in the spine, known as a spinal misalignment. A shift in the spine puts pressure on the nervous system (spinal cord and spinal nerves), which could lead to muscle tension, pain, limited mobility and damage to organ systems. It is essential that the spinal cord and nerves are free of interference. An optimal spine means optimal health.
If you are concerned about how your child’s posture looks, then consider bringing your child to a chiropractor for a postural and spinal check up. Chiropractors are experts in posture and spinal correction.
Related Articles:
Optimal Posture Is Essential For Overall Health And Well-Being
Posture And The Impact Of A Forward Head Position
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Dr. Walter Salubro is a family wellness chiropractor who has been serving the Maple and Vaughan community for over 13 years.
Dr. Salubro provides chiropractic care to people all age groups. He has completed many post-graduate courses in techniques applicable to both children and adults. In addition to offering specific spinal adjustments and posture corrective techniques, Dr. Salubro offers an extensive line-up of health and wellness workshops, exercise classes and a run-walk club to his patients.
Dr. Walter Salubro is dedicated to providing the highest quality chiropractic care for all of his patients. He is a 1999 graduate of the National College of Chiropractic and certified from the Academy of Chiropractic Family Practice and the Council on Chiropractic Pediatrics (C.A.C.C.P.). Dr. Walter Salubro
is Webster Technique Certified, certified and recognized by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). Dr. Salubro caters to the specialized care of infants and pregnant mothers.
