Back Pain is a condition that we usually associate with adults. However, lifestyle changes mean back trouble is no longer confined to the adult population; more and more children and adolescents are reporting discomfort.

What causes Back Pain? 

Normal daily activities and certain habits can trigger back pain, either now or in the future. These are some of the main causes:

School Bags: especially when they are carried incorrectly, too heavy, or poorly designed.

Posture: mainly ‘slouching’ or slumping.

Sitting: for too long or on the wrong furniture.

Exercise: not taking enough, or using the wrong techniques.

Diet: too much junk food will cause weight gain, which places extra stress on the body and does not provide the body with the necessary nutrients for healthy bones and joints.

Growing up: Periods of rapid growth can cause back problems.

Weight: Children who are over weight or out of shape are more likely to get back pain

If your child gets back pain :

• Try wrapping a hot water bottle in a towel and placing it over the affected area for 20 – 30 minutes

• Don’t confine them to bed! Gentle exercise can help reduce pain and stiffness. KidsPhysio will be able to offer you advice on suitable exercises.

• If your child is under 10 years old and there is no clear reason for their back pain (eg a fall) contact your GP

• Contact KidsPhysio for an appointment.

If you would like a copy of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s leaflet ‘Backs for the Future’ please contact KidsPhysio and we will post a copy to you.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is when the back curves sideways in an ‘S’ shape. It may be noticeable because one shoulder blade is higher than the other.

No one knows what causes the most common form of scoliosis, which is called idiopathic scoliosis. The condition can be hereditary, so a child who has scoliosis may have family members who have it. Scoliosis can develop very gradually and it is often not diagnosed until a child is between the ages of 10 and 14.

In most cases, scoliosis does not require medical treatment. Your child may be referred to an Orthopaedic Consultant who will assess their spine to see if the curve progresses. The consultant will probably measure the ‘ Cobb angle’, a measure of the curvature of the spine. The number of degrees helps them decide what type of treatment is necessary. A scoliosis curve of 10 to 15 degrees usually means that nothing needs to be done, except for monitoring until the child has finished growing. If the curve is 20 to 40 degrees, the Consultant may suggest a back brace. A Cobb angle of 40 or 50 degrees or more may mean that surgery is necessary.

KidsPhysio can offer a programme of exercises aimed at improving or maintaining the strength and mobility of the muscles around the spine or hips to prevent deterioration of a scoliosis.