Analysis of Children’s Anthropometric and Musculoskeletal Indicators: A Study of 4th, 5th, and 6th Graders at Three Elementary Schools

Background Childhood and adolescence are periods of rapid anthropometric growth and musculoskeletal development, and anthropometric characteristics during this period have significant implications for long-term health and lifestyle development. Recently, industrial-ization and the increased use of smart devices have exacerbated musculoskeletal problems such as obesity and scoliosis, highlighting the need for early assessment and preventative approaches. Purpose This study aimed to analyze anthropometric and musculoskeletal indicators among children in grades 4 to 6 in Janghang-eup using a cross-sectional design. Study design Cross-sectional study Methods This study was conducted in September 2025 at three elementary schools in Janghang-eup, Seocheon-gun. A total of 172 students participated, and data from 167 were included in the final analysis. Measurements included height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, maximal grip strength, craniovertebral angle, and thoracic and lumbar scoliosis angles, and were presented as means and standard deviations. Results The age of the study subjects was 10.86±0.89 years, and the height and weight were 149.83±9.16 cm and 48.18±13.21 kg, respectively. The BMI was 21.22±4.42, and the waist circumference was 72.30±12.04 cm. Maximal grip strength was 22.03±8.52 kg, and the craniovertebral angle was 41.89±9.94°. The thoracic and lumbar scoliosis angles were 1.87±1.52° and 1.71±1.65°, respectively. More than half of the children were classified as overweight or obese based on BMI, and over 70% exhibited forward head posture (CVA<48°), indicating a high prevalence of musculoskeletal risk factors in this population. While these values were generally within the normal range, large variations were observed in BMI, weight, and maximal grip strength. Conclusions This study presented the anthropometric characteristics of children in an area at risk of extinction, providing fundamental data for understanding the growth and development of school-age children. Furthermore, the results of childhood anthropometric measurements can be used as a basis for designing school health and physical education programs, as well as for developing community-tailored physical activity programs to promote spinal health and prevent obesity.