| Summary: | It is well establish that posture deformities are a common problem among
children that is often ignored by parent and teachers. Posture deformities in
children could be related to their socio-economic status, lifestyle, culture,
tradition, environmental factors, as well as activity levels and are associated
with numerous adverse health effects, which include lung and heart defects,
indigestion and back pain. Children who experience back pain are at
increased risk of having back pain as adults. The economic impact of back
pain affects the industry, were back problems are the most expensive type of
injury claim. The increase in spinal problems, such as lower back pain in
children and adolescents, points to the need for continued screening. It is
suggested that early detection of postural deviation could provide an improve
chance for corrective remedies and posture development.
On investigating the relevant literature it becomes clear that attempts to define
the prevalence of posture deformities among children have focused on
reporting selected deformities only. Consequently the literature contains
insufficient information on posture deformities involving the entire
musculoskeletal system, as well as the prevalence of posture deformities
among black African people.
The purpose of this study was firstly to determine the incidence of posture
deviations among black African children in the North West Province and
secondly to determine the difference in the prevalence of posture deformities
between boys and girls. In a longitudinal study posture deformities including
the entire musculoskeletal system were assessed in 251 schoolchildren (136
girls and 115 boys). Posture screening was done according to the New York
Posture test and a posture grid. Subjects were evaluated in a standing
position from the rear and lateral side. Foot deformities (flat foot) were also
measured with the use of white chalk and a black board. Thereafter the
"Adam's test" (forward bending test) were used for further scoliosis evaluation.
The prevalence of posture deformities was reported to be high among black
African schoolchildren. The incidence of lordosis (84%) and protruding
abdomen (67%) was the highest, while twisted head (8%) was reported as the
lowest. Gender difference in the prevalence of posture deformities was also
found, with a higher incidence of posture deformities reported in girls (54%) as
in boys (46%). === Thesis (M.Sc. (Human Movement Science))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007.
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