ANALYSIS OF RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH POSTURAL DEVIATIONS AND BACK PAIN IN CHILDREN DURING EARLY ADOLESCENCE

Introduction: The early adolescence period represents a phase of turbulent physical development, characterized by disproportion in the musculoskeletal system, where the muscular system's inability to maintain a normal relationship between certain body segments results in poor posture among adolescents. Back pain is an increasing health problem among children and adolescents. Postural deviations and back pain are common issues among children, caused by the long-term effects of various risk factors associated with modern lifestyles. Methods: This study is a non-experimental (qualitative) research, specifically a scientific literature review. For the purposes of this paper, a search of relevant databases including Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Med-Line was conducted for articles published between 2011 and 2024. Results: A significant number of articles were published between 2011 and 2024 in relevant scientific databases. After removing duplicates and irrelevant studies, 13 studies were included in the research. The studies used in this paper were published in Poland, the Czech Republic, Portugal, Tunisia, China, Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, Brazil, Lebanon, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia. Conclusion: Based on the review of scientific literature, it can be concluded that early identification of risk factors is essential, as it will reduce the frequency of postural deviations and back pain in children during early adolescence. Timely implementation of educational preventive programs on exercises, education about proper posture, sitting techniques, correct school bag carrying, the use of ergonomically adjusted school furniture, and promoting an active lifestyle at home and school, along with regular physical activity, is necessary.