What is "W-Sitting" and why does it matter if my child sits in a W shape? "W-Sitting" is a position in which a person sits with his or her bottom, knees and feet all touching the floor, with the knees bent and the feet resting near the sides of the hips/pelvis. It is not uncommon to see toddlers transition briefly through a W-sit to other movement patterns as they learn to crawl, walk, and sit upright and unsupported for extended periods of time. this is because the W-sit position provides a wider base of support and helps the children balance. However when children continue to W-sit as they get older this position can become problematic in many ways. Why do kids W-sit? Kids who have low muscle tone, poor balance, or difficulty with motor control and coordinator are often W-sitters. Since W-Sitting creates a wider base of support and makes balancing easier for these children they often continue to sit this way, even though the position actually decreased their ability to move since it limits side-to-side motions such as leaning and trunk rotations.
What are the dangers of W-Sitting?
Long term W-sitting can lead to a variety of problems including joint strain in the hips and knees, poor core stability, and limited movement during play.
It can also increase the risk of hip dislocation and cause muscle shorting or tightening of the hamstrings, adductors, and internal rotators.
Children who are frequent W-sitters may have persistant poor core strength which makes it difficult to play, sit up in a chair without excessive slouching or fidgeting and complete self-care tasks; They often have trouble crossing midline, or reaching across the body during common daily activities.
Long-term W-sitting can also contribute to back issues, hip pain, and osteoarthritis in adulthood. To find out more about how to address W-Sitting please read the factsheet below if you would like a paper copy of the fact sheet please let an MMM staff member know and we can print one for you to keep.
Comments