Student health and physical wellbeing in secondary vocational education and the rise of orthopedic disorders in children and adolescents

Aim. This paper aims to evaluate health risk factors and assess the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among secondary vocational students. Materials and methods. This paper provides an analysis of medical certificates submitted by first-year vocational students. Musculoskeletal health and lateral spinal mobility were measured using the fingertip-to-floor test (cm) and lateral flexion test (cm). Spinal flexibility (cm) was evaluated using the sit-and-reach test. A questionnaire was developed to identify physical activity patterns and examine daily routines. Results. Postural disorders and flat feet were iden­tified in 45% of first-year vocational students at Derzhavin Tambov State University. The fingertip-to-floor test demonstrated a 1.5 cm greater distance on the left side versus right (p > 0.05). Left-sided shoulder asymmetry was observed in 50% of students. 68% of students demonstrated satisfactory spinal flexibility test results. Survey data indicated significant Internet engagement among first-year students. The majority of respondents showed low motivation in health promotion and minimal interest in physical activity. Conclusion. The elevated risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders among secondary vocational students necessitates the implementation of health-promoting interventions within PE curricula. Such interventions should provide students with structured movement activities designed to establish postural awareness and mitigate existing musculoskeletal impairments.