Unit-2 Children and Women in Sports

Common postural deformities 

Postural deformity- it is a kind of variance in the normal  shape of the spine or body structure.

Deformity- An appearance which has been spoiled or misshapen or malformed.

According to Metheny, “The best posture is that in which body segments are balanced in the positions of least strain and maximum support”.

The deviations from the normal postural curves mean occurrence of physical deformity in the body, it may be due to defect or damage due to several reasons which can be corrected with the help of corrective measures.

Deformities of the upper extremities

Kyphosis (Hump Back)

It is characterized by an exaggerated rounding of the upper back (Thoracic region). It can be caused by various factors, such as poor posture, osteoporosis, or  Scheuermann's disease. Kyphosis can cause pain and discomfort, limit mobility, and affect breathing.

Corrective measures for kyphosis

1. Exercise- Certain exercises can help improve posture and strengthen the muscles in the upper back. Exercises such as shoulder blade squeezes, chin tucks, wall angels, wall push and swimming can help improve posture and reduce the severity of kyphosis. Asana- Dhanurasana, Chakrasana.

2. Stretching- Stretching can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles. Examples-  chest stretches and upper back stretches.

3. Posture correction- Proper posture while sitting, standing, and walking  can help reduce the severity  and prevent it from worsening.

4. Bracing- In some cases, bracing may be recommended to help improve posture. A back brace can help support the spine and improve posture.

5. Surgery- In severe cases, surgery may be helpful by  removal of a portion of the vertebral column or the insertion of metal rods to stabilize the spine.

 Lordosis (Hollow Back)

It is characterized by an excessive inward curvature of the spine (Lumber region)., typically in the lower back.

Corrective measures for lordosis:

1. Exercise- Exercises such as sit-ups, cycling from supine lying position, pelvic tilts, bridges and hamstring stretches can help reduce the severity of lordosis and improve mobility. Asana- Halasana and Paschimottan asana.

2. Weight loss- it can be achieved through a combination of diet and exercise.

3. Posture correction and Physical therapy- it can help improve muscle strength and flexibility, reduce pain, improve posture and provide guidance on proper form and technique.

4. Bracing- In some cases, bracing may be recommended to help support the lower back and improve posture. In severe cases surgery may be helpful.

 Scoliosis

It is characterized by a sideways curvature of the spine, bending, twisting or rotating. It is of two types- C type and S type. Long lateral curve on one direction is C scoliosis and two simultaneous curves in opposite direction are known as S scoliosis. The curve which develops first towards a side is called Primary curve and to counter act the balance of the body new curve develops known as Secondary curve.

 Corrective measures for scoliosis

 1. Observation- In mild cases of scoliosis, observation may be recommended to monitor the progression of the curvature. Regular checkups with a healthcare professional may be helpful.

 2. Bracing- In moderate to severe cases, bracing may be recommended. A back brace can help support the spine and prevent further curvature.

 3. Exercise- Exercises such as stretches, hanging, swings, sideways bending, alternate twisting and core strengthening exercises. Asana-  Trikonasana, Ardh-matsyendra-asana and Ardhachakrasana.

 4. Physical therapy- Physical therapy can develop an individualized exercise plan and provide guidance on proper form and technique. In severe cases surgery may be helpful. Early detection and treatment can help prevent the curvature from worsening and reduce the risk of complications.

 Round Shoulders (hunched shoulders)

 It is characterized by a forward position of the shoulders and a rounded upper back.

 Corrective measures for round shoulders

 1. Exercise- Exercises such as backward shoulder rotation, hanging or holding the horizontal bar,  scapular retractions, wall slides, and band pull-aparts. Asana- Chakrasana, Bhujangasana, usthrasana, Dhanurasana etc.

 Note- exercises for Kyphosis may be helpful in round shoulder deformity too.

 2. Stretching and Posture correction- to maintain good posture while sitting, standing, and walking will help.

 3. Ergonomic adjustments- Making ergonomic adjustments to the workplace or home environment can help for example- the height of the computer monitor or chair, using a standing desk, or using a headset instead of holding a phone.

 4. Physical therapy- Physical therapy can help improve muscle strength and flexibility, reduce pain, and improve posture.

Deformities of Lower Extremities

 Knock knees (genu valgum)

 It is a condition where the knees are angled inward, causing the feet to be apart when the knees are touching

Corrective measures for knock knees-

 1. Exercise- Exercises such as squats, lunges, leg presses and holding of pillow between the knees while standing. Asana- Padmasana and Gomukhasana.

 2. Orthotics- Orthotic devices, such as braces or shoe inserts for support and stabilizing the joint.

 3. Weight loss-  For overweight or obese, weight loss can help reduce the pressure on the knee joint, improve knee alignment, and reduce the severity of knock knees.

 4. Physical therapy-  An individualized exercise plan and guidance on proper form and technique.

 5. Surgery- In severe cases, Surgery can help realign the bones and joints and improve knee function.

 Bow legs (Genu Varum)

 It is a condition where the legs appear to bow outward at the knees. It is common in infants and toddlers, but in most cases, it corrects itself as the child grows. However, in some cases, it can persist into adulthood and lead to problems with walking, running, and other activities.

 Corrective measures for  Bow legs 

 1. Observation- In most cases, the condition resolves on its own as the child grows. Parents can monitor their child's leg alignment and bring any concerns to their pediatrician's attention.

 2. Bracing- If the child's condition is more severe then brace can help to correct the alignment of the legs by applying pressure in the right places.

 3. Physical therapy- It includes  stretching, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises, walk on inner edge of the foot, practicing squats etc. improve leg alignment and strengthen the muscles around the knee.

 4. Asana- Virabhadrasana, Garland Pose (Malasana), Butterfly Pose (Badhakonasana), Chair Pose (Utkatasana), Extended Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana), Eagle Pose (Garudasana), Gomukhasana and vrikshasana etc. In severe cases surgery may be helpful.

 5. Nutritional supplements- In some cases, bow legs may be caused by a nutritional deficiency, such as a lack of vitamin D or calcium. Nutritional supplements can help to correct this deficiency and improve the alignment of the legs.

 It is a condition that can be corrected with proper observation, bracing, physical therapy, surgery, or nutritional supplements. Parents should consult with child's pediatrician if needed.

 Flat Feet (fallen arches)

 It is a condition where the arch of the foot is flattened, making the entire sole of the foot touch the ground when standing. This may occur in one or both feet and can be a result of genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions.

 Corrective measures for flat feet

 1. Arch supports or orthotics- These are specially designed shoe inserts that provide support  the arch of the foot and distribute weight evenly across the foot.

 2. Strengthening exercises- Examples of exercises include toe curls, calf raises, and arch lifts.

 3. Stretching exercises- Examples of exercises include toe stretches, calf stretches, Achilles tendon stretches, rope skipping, picking marbles with toes, walking on toes etc.

 4. Asana- Urdhva Hastasana, Vrikshasana, Utkutasana can help.

 5. Proper footwear- It  provides adequate support and cushioning which alleviate symptoms of flat feet. Shoes with a firm heel and arch support are recommended.

 6. Weight management-  Being overweight can put additional stress on the feet, exacerbating flat feet symptoms.

 7. Physical therapy- In severe cases, A physical therapist can develop a treatment plan tailored to an individual's specific needs.

 Note- It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for correcting knock knees based on individual circumstances.

 Causes of the above Postural Deformities are-

 Genetics, Nutritional deficiencies, Metabolic diseases, Trauma, Blount disease (a growth disorder affecting the shinbone), overweight and others.

 Special consideration (Menarche and Menstrual Dysfunction)

 Menarche- It is the first menstrual period that occurs in girls, usually between the ages of 11-14 years. It is important to understand the normal range of age and factors that can affect it, such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health.

 Menstrual Dysfunction- Any abnormality in the menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or absence of periods. It is important to understand the different types of menstrual dysfunction, their causes, and possible treatments. Common causes of menstrual dysfunction include hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

 Health Implications- Menstrual dysfunction can have significant health implications, such as anemia, infertility, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. It is better to seek medical attention if any abnormalities are noted.

 Psychological Impact- Psychological impact, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression.

 Female Athletes Triad (Osteoporosis, Amenorrhea and Eating disorders)

 The Female Athlete Triad is a set of interrelated conditions that commonly affect female athletes, particularly those involved in sports that emphasize leanness, such as gymnastics, figure skating, and long-distance running. The triad consists of three components- (i) Osteoporosis, (ii) Amenorrhea, and (iii) Eating Disorder. 

(i) Osteoporosis- It is a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. Female athletes with the triad are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to low estrogen levels and poor nutrition.

(ii) Amenorrhea- Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods for three or more consecutive months. Female athletes with the triad may experience amenorrhea due to low body fat, which can disrupt the production of hormones needed for menstruation.

(iii) Eating disorders- Eating Disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that can have negative impacts on an individual's physical, mental, and social health. 

Types of eating disorders- The most common types of eating disorders include (i) Anorexia nervosa, (ii) Bulimia nervosa, and (iii) Binge eating disorder.

(i) Anorexia nervosa is a type of eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and extreme efforts to maintain a low body weight.

 (ii) Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, which involves consuming a large amount of food in a short period of time, and purging, which involves getting rid of the calories through self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or excessive exercise.

 (iii) Binge eating disorder is a type of eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of  binge eating, during which an individual consumes a larger amount of food than most people would eat in a similar time period and experiences a sense of lack of control over the eating.

 Risk factors- Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds, but they are more common in adolescents and young adults, especially females. Other risk factors for eating disorders include genetic predisposition, history of dieting, poor body image, and stress.

 Symptoms- Symptoms of eating disorders can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but they may include weight loss, preoccupation with food and weight, distorted body image, mood changes, and social withdrawal.

 Treatment- Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and nutrition counseling. Eating disorders are treatable conditions, and early intervention is important for the best outcomes. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to stabilize the individual's physical and mental health.

 Overall, understanding the Female Athlete Triad is important for healthcare professionals working with female athletes. It is important to recognize the risk factors, signs, and symptoms of each component of the triad and to provide appropriate education and interventions to prevent and treat these conditions.