In our clinic, it is not uncommon to encounter anxious parents who come in with their children, whose chest protrudes forward and resembles a bird, colloquially known as "chicken breasts". This condition not only affects the child's appearance, but more importantly, it may affect the cardiopulmonary function, causing great concern for parents. YetMany people have little understanding of the causes, effects and correction methods of "chicken breast", and even some misunderstandings and confusion.
"Chicken breast", medically known as sternal lordosis, is a chest deformity that affects children and adolescents in which the sternum is abnormally bulging. Although it is not directly life-threatening in most cases, it can affect heart and lung function and have an impact on a child's self-confidence and social life.
Genetic picture and growth chapter.
First of all, genetic factors play a non-negligible role in the formation of "chicken breasts". If someone in the family has had a similar chest deformity, the likelihood of the child developing it is relatively increased. This underscores the complex role that genetics plays in our health.
Secondly, in the process of growth and developmentThe bad habits are also an important reason for the formation of "chicken breasts". Prolonged poor sitting posture, such as playing with your phone or computer with your head down, as well as a lack of necessary physical exercise, can lead to abnormal development of the sternum and ribs, resulting in the formation of a "chicken breast".
The power of nutrition
Malnutrition, especially calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, can also lead to poor bone development, further increasing the risk of "chicken breast" formation. Calcium is the building block of bones, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calciumDeficiencies in these key nutrients can have a direct impact on your child's bone health.
In the process of diagnosing "chicken breast", doctors usually combine clinical observation with modern medical testing methods to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the diagnosis.
Observation and Imaging: A two-pronged approach.
On the one hand, through clinical observation, the doctor can preliminarily determine whether the child has the problem of sternal lordosis. Observing your child's standing posture and chest shape is key to this step.
On the other hand, X-ray examination is one of the important means of diagnosing "chicken breast". Through X-rays, the doctor is able to clearly see the structure of the sternum and ribsand to assess the degree of deformity.
High-tech assistance: 3D stereoscopic scanning
Recently, the application of 3D stereoscopic scanning technology has provided higher precision data for the diagnosis of "chicken breasts". This technology is able to produce detailed three-dimensional images of the chest, helping doctors to evaluate them comprehensively from different anglesThe deformity provides an important reference for the follow-up plan.
Practical method.
For "chicken breast" deformities, the choice of method depends critically on the severity of the deformity and the age of the child. Here are a few strategies that work::
Physical Exercise Strengthening: Exercises of the chest and back muscles, in particular, such as swimming and sit-ups, can help improve mild to moderate "chicken breast" deformities. These activities promote the normal development of the thoracic cage by strengthening the chest and back muscles and help reduce sternal lordosis.
Osteopathic orthoses: suitable for children with moderate deformities, with custom-made orthoses to gradually adjust the position of the sternum and ribs. Orthoses need to be worn correctly and adjusted regularly under the guidance of a doctor to ensure corrective results.
Surgical correction:Surgery may be needed to correct the deformity when it significantly affects your child's physical function, such as difficulty breathing, or causes a significant psychological burden. Surgery usually involves reshaping the sternum and ribs to restore the normal appearance of the chest. Surgical correction needs to be performed by an experienced doctor in a specialized hospital.
Preventing "chicken breast" deformities is equally important, and here are a few effective precautions:
Balanced nutrition: Make sure your child is getting enough calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that are essential for bone health. A balanced diet helps support normal bone development and maintenance.
Good living habits: Encourage your child to maintain a correct sitting and standing posture, and reduce the amount of time spent hunched over or playing with electronic devices with their heads down. Regular eye-to-foot stretching can help avoid sternal abnormalities.
Regular health check-ups: During the child's growth, regular health check-ups should be carried out, especially paying attention to the child's chest development. Once the initial signs of deformity are found, a professional doctor should be consulted in time to take appropriate corrective measures according to the doctor's recommendations.
Chicken breast" deformed** and prevention require a tripartite effort between parents, doctors, and children. Through early identification, rational selection of ** options, and the implementation of effective preventive measures, most "chicken breast" deformities can be significantly improved or completely corrected. It is important that parents work closely with medical professionals to provide a healthy environment for their children to grow up.