Analysis of body segments and postural state in school children

Aim of our study was to identify the number of existing posture disorders in children in primary schools and to identify the most prevalent position of body segments that cause postural disorders.

The occurrence of postural disorders was analysed in the school year 2016/2017. The sample consisted of 311 pupils age 6-8 from the 16 districts of the Slovak republic. We used Klein, Thomas and Mayer method to evaluate the posture. Flat feet were evaluated according to Napoleon Wolanski scale. The results were verified by using a base rate quantity test. We determined the level of statistical significance at p = 0.05.

We observed statistically significant postural disorders in children. Poor posture occurs in more than 50% of the population under the study. The most critical body segments which were subjected to pathology were shoulder blades and shoulders. Pathology in these segments exceeds 80%. Flat feet occurrence was in 65% children. Adverse results were also seen in pathologic position of: pelvis anteversion (46 %), head protruding (42%) and spinal curvature deformities in the sagittal plane (30%). In the frontal plane deformities of spinae reached 13%.

Health status of the children's locomotor system, especially postural system is poor. High prevalence of postural disorders in children requires preventive programs such as introducing corrective exercises into physical education and engaging children in sports. Knowledge of the most frequent body segments defects in children can be helpful for professionals in creating adequate corrective programs for children.