Could your child be suffering from iPosture Syndrome

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What is iPosture Syndrome?

iPosture Syndrome refers to the stooping/hunching posture we are increasingly seeing in our young children and teenagers, once an issue seen only in adults. Due to the increase use of portable technology at younger and younger ages stooping is now commonplace in all age groups.

The syndrome can have dire consequences on our children’s future wellbeing. MRI studies now confirm that poor postures while using such devices are causing permanent damage to our children.

How to check your child for i Posture Syndrome

Follow these 3 simple steps:

1. Stand side on to your child

2. Ask your child to look straight ahead

3. Find the middle of the side of their shoulder. In your mind’s eye draw a line running from the hole in their ear down to their shoulder.  This line should fall at the middle of the shoulder.

If the line falls forward of the middle of the shoulder this indicates that your child’s posture is already showing signs of iPosture Syndrome.

What does this mean?

If your child’s head is dropping forward just 2.5 cm there is an extra 3-4.5 kg of additional weight on the neck. This is over 100% increase of the weight bearing stress on the spine and soft tissues.  Over time this can lead to back pain, neck pain, headaches, muscle tension, poor breathing, digestion issues and reduction in general wellbeing. This can leave you with one tired, grumpy and exhausted child.

How can I protect my child?

• Here at Ollie Owl we recommend maintaining an upright posture when using screens.
• Encourage them to assume better postures while using computers, laptops, ipads, iphones and games.
• Minimise screen time to 30 minutes at a time.
• Sleep on a supportive contoured pillow to give your body a chance to recover!
• Take advantage of our free download of age appropriate stretches to combat iPosture syndrome