Teenager Back Pain: Preventing & Managing

John Miller Physiotherapist

Article by John Miller

Teenager Back Pain

Managing Teenager Back Pain: A Physiotherapist’s Guide

Teenagers often encounter spinal discomfort, posing a unique challenge for management. Their abundant flexibility, coupled with low muscle strength and posture control, renders them more susceptible to back and neck pain.

Encourage Regular Exercise

To thwart spinal pain in youth, it’s imperative to advocate for regular exercise and concentrate on upholding fitness and core stability control. Engaging in routine physical activity aids in fortifying supporting muscular structures and mitigates the likelihood of spine injuries. However, certain sports like gymnastics, cricket fast bowlers, and tennis escalate the prevalence of associated lumbar spine issues due to repetitive twisting and hyper-bending motions. But, in the vast majority, the risks can be minimised with appropriate exercise and load-management programs.

Teenager-standing-pain-free-after-physiotherapy-session-for-sore-back
Teenager Resumes Active Life Post Back Treatment

Seeking Professional Guidance

Severe conditions such as spondylolisthesis necessitate vigilant treatment from an experienced physiotherapist proficient in addressing such injuries. Fortunately, the majority of injuries are minor, self-restrained, and exhibit favourable responses to physiotherapy intervention.

Consultation with a Physiotherapist

Should your teenager encounter spinal discomfort, it is strongly recommended to seek consultation with a physiotherapist or a spinal specialist to pinpoint and address any deficiencies in this realm. Equipped with appropriate treatment and guidance, adolescents can effectively manage their spinal pain and sustain an active and healthy lifestyle.

New Research Perspective

Recent research underscores the pivotal role of early intervention and tailored physiotherapy programs in ameliorating adolescent spinal pain. Studies advocate for a multidimensional approach encompassing strength training, postural correction, and ergonomic modifications to alleviate discomfort and enhance functional outcomes.

Preventive Measures

In addition to targeted interventions, implementing preventive strategies can significantly reduce the incidence of adolescent neck and back pain. Encouraging teenagers to adopt ergonomic practices, maintain proper posture during activities, and limit sedentary behaviours can mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal strain and injury.

Ergonomic Tips for Teenagers

  • Ensure proper desk and chair height to support neutral spine alignment during study sessions.
  • Encourage regular breaks to stretch and mobilise stiff muscles, particularly during prolonged periods of sitting or screen use.
  • Emphasise the importance of maintaining good posture while standing, walking, and participating in recreational activities.
  • Provide guidance on lifting techniques to prevent excessive strain on the spine and surrounding structures during daily tasks and sports-related activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and proactively addressing adolescent neck and back pain is imperative to foster optimal musculoskeletal health among teenagers. Through a concerted effort involving regular exercise, professional guidance, and evidence-based interventions, adolescents can mitigate the impact of spinal discomfort and embrace a life unhindered by pain.

What to Do?

To seek the professional advice of your physiotherapist and embark on a journey towards alleviating adolescent neck and back pain, take proactive steps today.

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Common Adolescent Spinal Injuries

Lower Back (Lumbosacral Spine)

Midback (Thoracic Spine)

Neck (Cervical Spine)

For specific advice regarding youth neck or back pain, seek the professional advice of your trusted spinal physiotherapist or doctor.

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