Scoliosis is a spinal deformity that causes the spine to appear curved, resembling the letter S or C. While it can affect anyone, many cases of scoliosis are found in school-age children, particularly those aged 10–15. The question is, why are school children more susceptible to scoliosis? What causes it, and how can it be prevented?
Why Does Scoliosis Often Occur in School Children?
The school years are a crucial period during which children experience rapid bone growth. During this phase, the spine is still highly deformable. Therefore, inappropriate daily habits can significantly impact a child's posture.
Furthermore, many activities school children engage in actually don't support ideal posture, such as improper sitting, carrying heavy bags, and a sedentary lifestyle. If these habits persist for a long time, the risk of scoliosis can increase.
Causes of Scoliosis in Children
Although most cases of scoliosis in children are idiopathic (no known cause), several factors can trigger or worsen the condition. Here's an explanation:
1. Rapid Bone Growth
During puberty, bones grow rapidly. An imbalance in muscle and bone growth can cause the spine to curve more easily. Girls are generally at greater risk of developing idiopathic scoliosis than boys.
2. Wrong Sitting Habits
Schoolchildren often sit for hours every day. Sitting hunched over, leaning over, or too close to a desk can put uneven pressure on the spine. If done consistently, this can lead to changes in posture.
3. Carrying a school bag that is too heavy
A heavy school bag slung over only one shoulder can pull the muscles and spine to one side. This habit can lead to postural imbalances over time.
4. The habit of staring at gadgets
Today's children frequently use gadgets for both learning and playing. Prolonged head tilt increases the weight of the head and puts significant pressure on the cervical and upper back bones. A "turtle neck" posture can lead to spinal curvature.
5. Genetic Factors
Scoliosis can run in families. If a parent or sibling has scoliosis, the child's risk of developing the condition is higher.
What are the Signs of Scoliosis in Children?
Parents often don't realize their child has scoliosis because the condition can appear gradually. Some signs to look out for include:
- Uneven shoulders (one shoulder looks higher).
- Hips appear lopsided.
- One side of the shoulder blade is more prominent.
- Clothes appear to fall unevenly.
- Children often complain of back pain.
- Difficulty standing up straight or appears to lean to one side.
The sooner scoliosis is detected, the greater the chance of preventing the curvature from getting worse.
How to Prevent Scoliosis in Children
There are several steps that can help maintain spinal health and reduce the risk of curvature.
1. Get used to sitting with the correct posture.
- Sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
- Feet flat on the floor, not hanging.
- The distance between the eyes and the book is about 30–40 cm.
- Use chairs and tables that are appropriate for your height.
2. Use the Bag Correctly
- Choose a backpack with two shoulder straps, not a sling bag.
- Make sure the bag weighs no more than 10–15% of the child's body weight.
- Arrange your luggage to make it lighter.
3. Limit Gadget Use
- Set a daily screen time limit.
- Make sure your child uses gadgets in the correct position (not looking down for long periods).
- Direct the child to take a break every 30 minutes.
4. Regular exercise
Physical activity helps strengthen back muscles and improve spinal flexibility. Recommended exercises include:
- Swim
- Kids yoga
- Bicycle
- Posture exercises
5. Check your posture regularly
Parents can perform simple home exams, such as a forward bending test. If a curvature is observed, consult an orthopedic doctor immediately.
6. Fulfill Bone Nutrition
Make sure your child gets enough calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and protein to support bone health.
Early screening can significantly reduce the risk of scoliosis. If you notice signs of scoliosis in your child, don't wait until the curvature worsens. Early examination by an orthopedic surgeon is crucial for determining appropriate treatment.
Article written by Dr. I Made Buddy Setiawan, M.Biomed, Sp.OT(K)Spine (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist, Spine Consultant at EMC Cikarang, Pekayon & Sentul Hospital).