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DGOU: Lack of movement and digital use cause child back pain
The German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma (DGOU) reports that back pain in children and adolescents is primarily caused by a lack of physical movement and excessive use of digital devices rather than heavy school bags alone.
Experts note that prolonged periods of sitting and leaning the head forward while using tablets or smartphones can overload upper back muscles, leading to tension. To prevent these issues, the DGOU recommends increasing daily activity, such as walking or cycling to school, participating in sports, and taking regular breaks from sitting.
Regarding school equipment, the DGOU advises that backpacks should be properly adjusted to the child's height, feature well-padded straps, and be worn using both shoulder straps to avoid spinal strain. Additionally, children should avoid carrying unnecessary materials and use tablets at table height rather than on their laps.
Entities
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie · Jörn Dohle
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Leaning the head forward while using tablets or smartphones can overload upper back muscles. www.fehmarn24.de · www.bbv-net.de · hier-luebeck.de · www.op-online.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Using both shoulder straps is necessary to avoid unnecessary strain on the spine. hier-luebeck.de
- [● 3 SOURCES] If back pain lasts for several weeks or occurs during rest or at night, it should be checked by an orthopedist. www.fehmarn24.de · www.bbv-net.de · www.op-online.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] School bags should fit the child's height and have well-padded shoulder straps. hier-luebeck.de
- [● 4 SOURCES] Walking or cycling to school helps prevent back problems. www.fehmarn24.de · www.bbv-net.de · hier-luebeck.de · www.op-online.de
- [● 4 SOURCES] Lack of movement and increased use of digital devices are major causes of back pain in children. www.fehmarn24.de · www.bbv-net.de · hier-luebeck.de · www.op-online.de