Why Are Children Experiencing Spine Pain and What Can Parents Do to Help?
- Julian Simpson
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 19
Why Are Children Experiencing Spine Pain and What Can Parents Do to Help?
One of the most common types of chronic pain experienced by children and adolescents is spine pain, a condition that has been reported to affect an astonishingly high percentage of this population, with estimates indicating that it impacts up to 74% of young individuals.
This prevalence underscores the importance of understanding the underlying causes and implications of spine pain in this demographic.
Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for more than 12 weeks, distinguishing it from acute pain, which is often temporary and linked to a specific injury or illness. In the context of children and adolescents, chronic pain can have profound effects on their daily lives, influencing their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Spine pain in children and adolescents is particularly relevant and concerning, as it carries long-term implications that can significantly affect their quality of life. These implications include a decreased level of participation in physical activities, which is crucial for healthy development, as well as poorer academic performance in school settings. The ability to engage in sports and recreational activities is vital for physical health, social interaction, and personal development, and when spine pain limits these opportunities, it can lead to further complications, including obesity and social isolation.
In fact, neck pain and other musculoskeletal diseases have been identified as the 4th and 10th most prevalent health conditions causing disability among adolescents aged between 15 and 19 years old. These conditions not only hinder the immediate quality of life but also pose a risk of developing chronic health issues later in adulthood. The significance of these findings cannot be overstated, as they highlight the urgent need for early intervention and management strategies to address spine pain in young populations.
Moreover, back pain in children and adolescents is particularly concerning due to its strong association with future back pain in adulthood. Research indicates that individuals who experience back pain during their formative years are at a higher risk of continuing to suffer from similar issues later in life. This cycle of pain can lead to a lifetime of discomfort, decreased mobility, and a diminished quality of life, making it imperative to recognise and address spine pain early on.
What are the risk factors that lead to spine pain in children? Understanding these factors is crucial for prevention and management.
BMI - An increased body mass index (BMI) is a significant risk factor, as excess fat mass may replace active muscle fibres, leading to weakened support for the spine and increased strain during physical activities.
Puberty status - The physical changes that occur during puberty can affect posture and body mechanics, potentially contributing to the development of spine pain.
Poor posture while sitting - Many children and adolescents spend extended periods in front of screens or at desks, and poor sitting posture can lead to spinal misalignment and discomfort.
Exposure to passive smoking - Numerous studies have shown that passive smoking can lead to increased pain perception in the body and may contribute to accelerated disc degeneration, further complicating spinal health.
Parental history of spine pain - Genetics can play a role in the likelihood of developing spine pain, making a family history of such conditions a significant risk factor.
Type of school bag - It is essential to use an appropriate school bag, as excessive weight can strain the back. For more detailed insights, see our other blog where we discuss that the weight of the school bag should not exceed 10% of the child's body weight.
Daily screen time - Our other blogs have discussed that screen time should be limited to UNDER 30 minutes a day, as excessive screen time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and contribute to poor posture and back pain.
School absenteeism - Frequent absences from school due to pain can create a cycle of disengagement and further exacerbate feelings of isolation and anxiety, which can, in turn, worsen physical symptoms.
Professional help-seeking - The willingness to seek professional assistance when experiencing pain is crucial. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and prevent the progression of chronic pain conditions.
How common is spine pain in children?
Between the ages of 6 to 17, approximately 0.63% of children will experience at least one episode of spine pain during this developmental period. This statistic highlights that while spine pain is not exceedingly prevalent in the pediatric population, it is still a noteworthy concern for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
The occurrence of spine pain in children can stem from various factors, including but not limited to, physical activities, sports injuries, poor posture, and underlying medical conditions. It is essential to understand that children are increasingly engaging in physical activities that may put a strain on their developing musculoskeletal systems. Activities such as gymnastics, football, and other high-impact sports can contribute to acute injuries or chronic pain.
However, it is crucial for parents and guardians to monitor the frequency and intensity of spine pain episodes in their children, as persistent or severe pain could signal a need for further medical evaluation to rule out more serious conditions such as scoliosis, herniated discs, or other spinal abnormalities.
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Reference
Fazaa A, Cherif I, Miladi S, Boussaa H, Makhlouf Y, Abdelghani KB, Laatar A. Prevalence of spine pain among Tunisian children and adolescents and related factors. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J. 2024 Sep 9;22(1):84. doi: 10.1186/s12969-024-01007-w. PMID: 39252107; PMCID: PMC11386316.
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