Photogrammetric Analysis of Posture and Associated Risk Factors in School-Aged Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Theoretical framework: Several spinal problems and misalignments begin during puberty and can be associated to poor posture. Objetives: To characterise the posture of children and adolescents by searching for associations with sociodemographic, behavioural, anthropometric, and clinical variables. Methodology: Cross-sectional analytical study using photogrammetry in a sample consisting of 135 participants, aged between 6 and 18 years. Results: The weight of the backpack was inadequate (>15% of body weight) in 10% of cases. The prevalence of low back pain associated to the type of footwear and Adam’s test was 37.8%. Students with positive Adam’s test are older, heavier, taller, more sedentary, and carry excessive weight in their backpacks. Significant gender differences were observed in the anterior view for both Q-angles, with girls tending to physiologic genu valgum). In the right and left lateral views, the results in the Adam’s test varied significantly, with participants with positive Adam’s test tending to a forward head posture. Conclusion: The results underline the importance of implementing programs directed to postural education.