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126
SURVEY OF POSTURE I960
Dr. F. E. O'Connor Wilson reports as follows:-
"A survey of the children's posture was done
at the same time as that of the feet. The age group
was nine to eleven years old.
Number of children examined 5271
" with Faulty Posture 654 or 12.4%
" of girls with Faulty Posture 365 or 6.9%
" " boys " " " 289 or 5.5%
All children with postural defects were referred
for treatment and will be reviewed in a few
months' time. Most of these defects included flat
chests and were due to slackness or weakness of the
muscles. Poor chest development can result from
repeated attacks of tonsillitis and nasal obstruction
and when these conditions are left too long before
being remedied, the breathing is affected and shallow
respirations produce poor development of the chest.
Breathing exercises correct these cases when the
cause has been removed.
Many of the children held themselves badly
but could stand correctly when told to do so. Crouching
in chairs looking at television programmes or
sitting at desks which are too low for them is a frequent
cause of round shoulders. Chairs and desks in
schools should be the correct height for the pupil,
preferably adjustable, owing to the great difference
in children's heights.
Good posture helps a child mentally as well
as physically. It will aid confidence and assist in
keeping the brain alert. Many employers prefer children
who have a good appearance. This is especially
bo where girls are employed and the girl with a good
carriage can oftan make a good impression when
seeking employment. "
PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINICS.
These were held at Kenwood Gardens on Monday and
Thursday mornings and at Mayesbrook Clinic on Tuesday