Effect of Prolonged Sitting on Posture in Children of Age 8-15 Years

Aim: To assess the effect of prolonged sitting on posture in children. Method: 151 children between the age of 8 – 15 years were included in the study from schools of Mangalore. They were then evaluated for standing posture in anterior and left lateral view with the use of an app Physiocode, photographs were clicked and analyzed in the app. The collected data was summarized by using the Descriptive Statistics: frequency, percentage; mean and S.D. The effect of prolonged sitting on posture (Both anterior and left later view); the mean and S.D. will be used. Data was analyzed by using the SPSS software version 29.0.10. Result: It was seen that there is high significance for deviation of posture from the normal. In anterior view there is increased left lateral bending 37.8 %, elevation of the shoulder to the right 34.5 %, elevation of pelvis to the right 47.3%, knees were neutral. And in lateral view there was forward headed posture 42.6%, anteversion of pelvis 98.0%. In left lateral view of body alignment there was posterior tilt 50.7 % seen. Left lateral view of body vertical trunk alignment posterior tilt 61.5 % was seen. Conclusion: The prolonged sitting effects child's posture and can cause poor posture in children as they are in developing age range when education starts. If poor posture continues for long term at this age, which leads to increased forward head posture, Kyphosis and functional scoliosis and also anterior pelvic tilt. Which leads to further consequences regarding posture in adolescents. Hence the seating arrangement for children in school should be evaluated for their postural needs. And an early ergonomic intervention focusing on furniture and school environment. Early pediatric physiotherapy attention for diagnosis and management is must to prevent further complications. And focusing on the ergonomics of the seating arrangement. Keywords: seated posture, school going children, posture development, poor posture, good posture, Pediatric physiotherapy