Implementation of a Classroom Program of Physiotherapy among Spanish Adolescents with Back Pain: A Collaborative Study.

María Blanco-Morales,Mónica De La Cueva-Reguera,Carlos Romero-Morales,Blanca De-La-Cruz-Torres,Isabel Rodríguez-Costa,Vanesa Abuín-Porras

doi:10.3390/ijerph17134806

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of back pain in adolescents is steadily increasing, with negative repercussions on students’ social and academic life. This study sought to improve the ergonomics and musculoskeletal health of adolescents in secondary school by implementing physiotherapy actions within the educational context. Methods: A qualitative collaborative action research approach was used, comprising 49 students, 9 teachers, 11 family members, and 9 physiotherapists. Workshops on ergonomics, stretching, and massage were held. Visual materials were developed to support the assimilation of the information given at the workshops. Data collection included field notes, reflexive diaries, in-depth interviews, and discussion groups. The data were analyzed using the Atlas.ti 6.0 program (Scientific Software Development GmbH, Berlin, Germany). Results: The presence of a physiotherapist in the school context facilitates the acquisition of healthy postural habits. All the adolescents perceived a decrease in back pain after undergoing the program. Conclusions: physiotherapy activities offer students new tools to decrease their back pain and improve their health.

Highlights

There is growing concern among teachers, health professionals, and parents regarding the increase in back pain among adolescents [1,2]
The qualitative methodology used for the development of this project is framed within collaborative action research, where physiotherapy activities are agreed by all participants
The increased awareness of the posture adopted in daily life has represented a first step for a change in postural habits

Summary

Introduction

There is growing concern among teachers, health professionals, and parents regarding the increase in back pain among adolescents [1,2]. The consequences include an increase in medical care and school absenteeism and a restricted ability to perform daily activities [7], which is correlated with depression among adolescents [8] and can affect their social behavior [9]. Along these lines, a study analyzing the relationship between physical activity and lower-back pain in Danish schoolchildren using retrospective data reported that between 5% and.

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Discussion

Conclusion