Factors associated with postural changes in the sagittal plane of adolescents in public schools

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify postural changes in the sagittal plane and their associated factors in high school adolescents from state schools in the city of Capão da Canoa – RS. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate 185 schoolchildren (14 to 19 years old) regarding backpack weight, thoracic and lumbar curvature angles. Self-administered questionnaires were used to assess postural habits, lifestyle, health and well-being, and socioeconomic status, and postural changes were assessed by the Flexicurve method. Data were assessed using the Chi-Square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Poisson regression (p<0.05). RESULTS: A high prevalence of back pain was found in 125 schoolchildren (67.60%) and postural changes in 75 schoolchildren (40.5%). Five (2.7%) presented thoracic deviation and 70 (37.9%) lumbar deviation. In 5.6% of the sample, more than one postural alteration occurred. There was an association between male gender and thoracic hyperkyphosis (p=0.014) and lumbar rectification. CONCLUSION: This study showed a high prevalence of back pain and inadequate postural habits that can be indicated as the associated factors responsible for the postural alterations observed.