Mary Franz - Mar 09th, 2011
Back pain is often regarded as an adult issue, but the condition is increasingly common in people under the age of 20. Acute back pain in childhood and adolescence can lead to chronic back problems later in life, so parents with children at risk of future problems should consider preventative measures.
In a recent study, researchers set out to determine pain intensity risk factors among children with nonspecific low back pain. Turkish school children were selected for the study. Among the 222 study participants, 106 were girls and 116 were boys, ages 10-18. Data was collected via a self-reported questionnaire, and researchers measured pain intensity. Independent variables including body mass index (BMI), sex, exercise habit, studying posture, transportation to/from school, duration of studying, bag handling and bed type were used to determine whether they had an effect on pain intensity.
Four of the variables were determined to affect pain intensity: duration of studying, bed type, transportation to/from school and BMI. Researchers suggested that there is a great need to discuss preventative factors with parents and teachers to better help the children avoid continued risk factors affecting the health of their back.
Many chiropractors have experience evaluating back pain in children of many ages. A chiropractor can examine your child or teen and determine what measures should be taken to prevent or diminish back pain and avoid long-term problems.
Akdag B, Cavlak U, Cimbiz A, Camdeviren H: Determination of pain intensity risk factors among school children with nonspecific low back pain. Medical Science Monitor: International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research. 2011 Feb:17 (2):PH 12-15.
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