Assessment of Postural Abnormalities among Students in Yazd Province

Abstract

Background: The rate of postural abnormalities, particularly in young individuals, is increasing. Therefore, the present study focused on examining the extent of postural structure abnormalities among sixth-grade students in Yazd province and the factors associated with it.Methods: This descriptive correlational study was conducted through a field approach. A total of 2001 sixth-grade students from Yazd province (1000 boys and 1001 girls) were randomly selected using cluster sampling, following the Morgan table. To conduct the study, the necessary data were collected through a questionnaire to gather anthropometric information about the subjects, such as age, height, weight, gender, and the prevalence of postural abnormalities, including forward head, kyphosis, lordosis, neck tilt, knock knees, bowlegs, flat feet, hallux valgus, asymmetric pelvis, scoliosis, drooping shoulders, raised shoulders, and inward rotated shoulders. The questionnaire also assessed the participants' consent to participate in the study and included the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A form was used to record measurements (sample questionnaires are provided in the appendix).Results: The results of this study showed a positive correlation between weight and winged scapula, bowlegs, and inward rotated shoulders. On the other hand, there was a negative correlation between weight and knock knees, flat feet, and lumbar lordosis (p < 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between height and winged scapula, sway back (p < 0.01), and inward rotated shoulders (p < 0.05). Moreover, a negative correlation was found between the level of physical activity and winged scapula, knock knees, bowlegs, flat feet, inward rotated shoulders, and lumbar lordosis (p < 0.01).Conclusion: Schools should increase the amount of structured physical activity during the school day. This could include exercises aimed at strengthening core muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting proper posture. By incorporating daily physical education classes, schools can help students build the muscle strength necessary to maintain proper posture.