Musculoskeletal disorders among children and young people: prevalence, risk factors, preventive measures

Introduction

Existing statistics show a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) already among children and young people. Prevalence of MSDs among young people / workers (under 25) is not as high as for older age groups but it remains quite high.In many cases, MSD problems begin in childhood, when inappropriate postures are combined with little sports activity[1]. Suffering from musculoskeletal pain in childhood or adolescence increases the risk of having it as an adult[2], possibly through the development of maladaptive beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes related to the earlier pain events[3]. If MSDs in children can be prevented, entry into a cycle of…