Upper Body Posture Ada[Taion in Children

This review aims to synthesize existing literature addressing age- and BMI-related upper-body postural adaptations and biomechanical loading interact to impact spinal and shoulder alignment, muscular strength, and postural control efficiency in school-aged children. Methods: A structured narrative synthesis was conducted utilizing literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Inclusion criteria focused on studies involving school-aged children (6-18 years) that investigated head, thoracic, and shoulder posture, as well as muscle strength in relation to age, BMI, and lifestyle factors. Age-related maturation influences spinal curvature, cervical alignment, and scapular positioning through evolving neuromuscular control. Elevated BMI alters load mechanics and mass distribution, increasing thoracic kyphosis, forward head posture, and shoulder protraction while reducing relative neck and shoulder strength. Obesity-related intramuscular fat infiltration and sedentary life style further impair postural stability and muscle performance