Educational Strategies for Spinal Health: Challenges and Perspectives in Preventing Low Back Pain in Youth

Abstract

Purpose: Given the growing prevalence of low back pain (LBP) starting in early adolescence, closely linked to prolonged
sitting, poor posture, and physical inactivity, there is a need to introduce proactive interventions. The objective of this
narrative review is to explore and synthesize existing knowledge on school-based educational programs aimed at spinal
health and preventing poor posture.
Methods: A literature search was conducted across multiple databases using keywords related to school-based educational
programs aimed at promoting spinal health.
Results: School-based interventions proved effective in raising awareness of spinal health and promoting healthy postural
behaviors. Programs that combined physical activity with interactive, student-centered learning showed the most significant
promise. Most studies focused on children aged 6-12, despite LBP often beginning during adolescence. Existing interventions
were frequently short-term and teacher-centered. There was a growing need for long-term, curriculum-integrated, studentcentered
programs that measured both knowledge retention and behavioral outcomes. Furthermore, many studies lacked
methodological rigor, underscoring the importance of well-designed, randomized controlled trials that utilize validated
tools. Insufficient attention was also given to digital methods, teacher training, and interdisciplinary approaches.
Conclusions: School-based interventions have proven effective in raising awareness of spinal health, with programs that
integrate physical activity and interactive, student-centered learning showing the greatest potential for promoting healthy
postural behaviors. However, inconsistent implementation and reliance on individual educators revealed the need for
systemic change. Integrating postural education into school health curricula- supported by digital tools and cross-sector
collaboration- was recognized as a way to improve long-term student health and serve as a meaningful public health initiative.