Chiropractic care helps teenagers with back pain

Chiropractic care helps teenagers with back pain

Almost half of all teenagers experience musculoskeletal pain. This is the result of a current scientific research study. This article discusses adolescents who experience musculoskeletal pain, particularly neck and back pain.

Here in Western Pennsylvania, teens are returning to school, and it's wise to be aware of some of the common physical stresses that can cause problems. While we're not surprised that adults who engage in vigorous physical activity can sustain neck and back injuries, some may not realize that children are exposed to the same harmful conditions.

For example, many of our teenagers participate in various school activities and sports.

I have patients who are involved in the school marching band. They were in “band camp,” which requires them to practice many hours a day. Some of them carry heavy instruments such as drums and tubas. Some are on the dance team. A percentage of them develop neck and back problems.

Likewise, cheerleaders have undergone enhanced preseason training. These students are involved in incredibly acrobatic cheerleading routines. There are girls called “flyers” who are literally thrown into the air and perform gymnastic maneuvers like flips. Then there are the youngsters who are considered “bases” who have to catch the flyers. Cheerleaders actually have a higher injury rate than football players.

When we talk about football players, we all know that they are intensely involved in their preseason practices and it is not difficult to imagine the physical stresses they undergo.

Boys and girls practice football on site. It is common for soccer players to use their head to propel and direct, or “steer,” the ball to a desired location. I have seen numerous soccer players injure their necks doing this maneuver.

A recent research study published in BMC Pediatrics, June 2019 reported that nearly half of adolescents experience musculoskeletal pain. The study noted that surveys conducted by 1,021 teenagers showed that 46% experienced pain in one or more parts of the body. The data showed that adolescents with musculoskeletal pain in at least one body site and lower quality of life scores and sleep quality than their pain-free peers. Additionally, participants with pain in multiple locations reported lower quality of life and sleep quality scores, as did participants with pain in only one area.

Clearly, our young people are at risk for musculoskeletal neck and back disorders.

Fortunately, a doctor of chiropractic can help many of these young people. Chiropractic care has always proven to be a possible solution for children with painful conditions. Chiropractic therapy is effective, safe and does not involve the use of potentially harmful drugs and medications and does not involve the use of invasive procedures such as surgery.

If a child complains of neck pain, upper back pain, lower back pain, or headache, this should not be ignored. It is strongly recommended that you see a chiropractor for a consultation.

Inspired by James Schofield