Effectiveness of the prevention programme on posture and the incidence of back pain in primary school children: a pilot study

Background: The incidence of back pain in childhood is rising and significantly impacts its incidence in adulthood. Important risk factors include poor posture, which is common due to a largely sedentary lifestyle. Our study aimed to determine the effect of a primary prevention programme on posture and pain incidence in primary school children. Methods: The research was conducted in eight 4th grades of four primary schools. Half of the grades were part of the posture hygiene programme throughout the school year, while the other half served as a control group. Before and after the programme, pupils were measured, their posture assessed, and a survey about back pain was conducted. Results: 179 pupils were included in the study. A history of back pain was found in 36.5% of the children, and only 9% had ideal posture. The implementation of the programme resulted in a 20% absolute reduction in the risk of pain and a 52% reduction in those who reported pain before the programme. At the end of the study, there was a statistically significant difference (p<0.001) between the two groups in all the measured parameters, except in the cranioclavicular angle. Conclusion: The study showed marked improvement in posture and reduced back pain in the students who were included in the programme. A preventive programme to improve postural hygiene could contribute significantly to addressing the problem among young people, thus reducing the incidence of back pain in the adult population.