THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SITTING POSTURE AND THE OCCURRENCE OF SCOLIOSIS IN ADOLESCENTS AT SMP NEGERI 4 ALALAK

HUBUNGAN ANTARA POSTUR DUDUK DENGAN TERJADINYA SKOLIOSIS PADA REMAJA PELAJAR SMP NEGERI 4 ALALAK

Abstract

Introduction: Maintaining bone health to prevent various disorders is crucial, especially during adolescence, which spans from ages 10 to 19. During this period, bones undergo significant growth. Scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, must be closely monitored, particularly during growth phases. Incorrect sitting posture while studying is one of the causes of scoliosis in children and adolescents. Scoliosis cases are found in 4.5% of the global population, with 2%-4% detected in adolescents. This study aims to determine the relationship between sitting posture and the incidence of scoliosis among students at SMP Negeri 4 Alalak, using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) instrument to evaluate sitting posture and a scoliometer to assess scoliosis based on the curve's apex. Methods: This is an observational analytic study with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consists of 176 adolescent students selected through purposive sampling. The study was conducted from March 1 to March 15, 2024. Data analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test with SPSS software, yielding results indicating a significant relationship between sitting posture and the incidence of scoliosis (p=0.000). Results: Data analysis using the Chi-Square test revealed a significant relationship between sitting posture and the occurrence of scoliosis (p=0.000). Conclusion: This study is expected to increase awareness among students and teachers about the importance of proper sitting posture to prevent scoliosis and avoid worsening the curvature degree in students who already have scoliosis.