Back when I was a school girl, they used to run medical tests around the fifth grade and record children’s height, weight and posture. This checkup at age 11-13 was very important as this age marks the beginning of puberty and physical maturity.

Why is such a test important at this age?

Children hit puberty around the ages of 10-15, which includes a substantial growth in height. First in girls and after about a year in boys. Girls usually see such changes around the age of 10-11, and boys usually start getting taller around the age of 13. This period is often characterized by an imbalance between bone growth and muscle elongation, which in turn brings about changes in posture and habits that may have a long-term effect on the children’s continued development.

Physical therapy for adolescents and youth

Bad posture habits or lack of physical activities in this period may lead to asymmetry that can cause scoliosis. Adolescents may experience unexplained pain, also known as "growth pain". Young athletes may also experience pain and difficulty persevering in their favorite sport.

Children who haven’t yet engaged in a regular physical activity or sports, may refrain from any physical activity altogether due to a perceived a sense of inability.

Other adolescents may adopt posture habits  that will affect them as adults – too slouched or too rigid.

The adolescents’ physical development comes in conjunction with their hormonal, emotional and social development. This period has a great impact on their self-confidence, body image and self-efficacy.

If you feel you’re constantly telling your child to "sit up straight”, “stand up straight”, “don’t drag your feet”, “tuck that belly”, then you should probably consider seeing a physical therapist. Your ongoing nagging and remarks will only make it worse, ruin your relationship and harm their self-image.

In an intake session with an adolescent, I diagnose and examine whether there is an actual posture impairment, and give my recommendations for solutions , the best activity for your child and whether they need additional sessions and a follow-up to improve their posture and help them implement new and healthier habits.

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