The summer is almost over, and although that may be a relief to some of you parents, the kids don’t see it that way! One of the most important aspects of the Back To School season is the BACK PACK! Carrying these packs puts abnormal pressure on the body and damages the spine, and in turn, the nervous systems of our children. Choosing the right backpack may be one of the most important school supplies a parent can purchase for their child in regards to their health and safety. Is your child’s backpack a good fit?
Every September, more than 20 million students go back to school carrying backpacks that are too heavy and pose a serious risk to the wearer’s well being. According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), young children today suffer from back pain much earlier than previous generations, and poorly fitted, overly heavy backpacks are key factors. Along with back pain, improper backpack use can result in headaches, poor posture and various other health problems.
Here are some necessary Backpack Safety Tips
Choose It Right — Select a backpack that has wide cushioned straps, which will distribute the weight evenly on the shoulders. In addition, a backpack with a waist strap can help stabilize the load because it does not allow the backpack to flop around.
Pack It Right — The weight of a loade
d backpack should not exceed 15 percent of the body weight of the wearer, particularly in small children. Wearers should pack the heaviest objects first, so they are carried lower and closer to the body. Students should pack only essential items in their backpack and, if necessary, make frequent stops at their lockers to exchange books.
They can also lighten the load by carrying heavy textbooks under their arms rather than in backpacks.
Lift It Right — Before attempting to lift it, check the weight of the backpack. Then, face the backpack, bend at the knees and lift with the legs, not with the back. Always use two hands and slip on one strap at a time.
Wear It Right — Use both shoulder straps, making sure they are snug but not too tight. If the backpack touches the back above the collar line, the straps are too tight.. Also make sure the pack is worn properly using
both straps synched up fairly tight so the
bag is not sagging down to their low back. The bo
ttom of the bag should not go below the child’s waist. If the pack has a waist strap, be sure to use it
Warning Signs for Parents
Parents should look for the following warning signs that indicate a child’s backpack may be causing a problem:
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The child cannot take off or put on the backp
ack without struggling.
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The child has to lean forward to carry the backpack.
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The child is experiencing numbness or
weakness in the arms and/or legs.
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The child has one shoulder that is higher than the other.
Though a popular style now, parents should di
scourage the use of messenger-style bags,
which are slung over one shoulder. Messenger-style bags put additional pressure on one shoulder, which can cause misalignment of the spine.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
It’s important for parents to look for the warning signs that backpacks are being worn or used inappropriately. Early interve
ntion can prevent serious injuries, the types of injuries which may result in long-term health problems, especially among young children whose bodies are still developing and growing. If parents notice any of the warning signs listed above, they should immediately speak to or visit a Structural Chiropractor. Here at Planet Chiroprac
tic, we are concerned with maintaining the optimal structure and natural curves of the spine because optimal spinal structure leads to optimal function of the human body.
PLANET CHIROPRACTIC 