Orthopedics - Oleksa A.P. 2006

Chest wall deformities
Flat chest

Flat chest (platypectus) is a rare condition typically observed in physically underdeveloped children and students who study while slouching over low desks, or in adults whose profession requires constant forward bending (such as shoemakers). In other words, a flat chest develops when there are factors that compress the Sternum and costal arches from the front and restrict normal breathing.

Treatment for a flat chest involves regular breathing exercises with deep, rapid inhalations to increase lung tidal volume, chest Muscle massage, and swimming.

The key priority is the Prevention of a flat chest. First and foremost, this applies to growing children, for whom it is essential to provide proper study conditions at home and at school, including appropriately sized desks, adequate workspace lighting, and preventing prolonged poor posture at the table. It is also important for children to engage in sports, running, and swimming, which enhance pulmonary ventilation and improve both chest shape and overall body Structure.



Last update: 10/08/2026

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