This study investigates the relationship between different toilet sitting styles (squat vs. western) and their effects on ankle range of motion (ROM), constipation symptoms, and lower limb strength in school-going children aged 6-12 years. With increasing urbanization, the shift from traditional squat toilets to sitting toilets may influence children's musculoskeletal development and bowel health. Squatting involves greater ankle dorsiflexion and muscle activation, which may contribute to better lower limb strength and improved bowel function compared to sitting postures.
A comparative cross-sectional design will be used, including participants from public and private schools. Data on toilet usage habits will be collected along with demographic information. Ankle ROM will be measured using a goniometer, lower limb strength will be assessed through the 1-minute sit-to-stand test and standing long jump, and constipation symptoms will be evaluated using the PAC-SYM questionnaire. Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS version 26. Ethical approval will be obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of Riphah International University, Lahore.
Students age group: 6-12 year.
Both male and female groups
Normal developing children
Children who have been using either sitting or squatting toilet type .
Children with lower limb surgery
Children with acute or chronic disease like irritable bowel syndrome
Children using both toilet postures
Children with neurological or developmental delays affecting toilet independence like Cerebral Palsy and autism.