It’s back to school time again! Back to school shopping has been done and your child is so proud of their new backpack. But for this a new backpack isn’t just a fashion statement that helps them carry their books in, it could be a health risk. In 2013 there we 5,415 reported backpack-related injuries treated in emergency rooms. A recent study even states “the incidence of back pain in early adolescence approaches that seen in adults”. That is alarming.
The strain of wearing a heavy backpack can cause neck pain, strain of the shoulders, lower back pain, and even headaches. These are problems that no one wants to suffer from. In addition to aches and pains due to the heavy weight of a backpack loaded with text books, backpacks can add to deformity of the spine. A heavy back pack rounds the shoulders forward and reverses the curves of the necks and low backs. This only promotes unhealthy posture of a growing body. Also the improper use of a bag, only wearing only over one shoulder adds uneven stress the can cause strain and deformity. Scoliosis is a common condition in growing adolescents. Uncontrolled or poorly managed scoliosis can lead to possible surgery at a very young age. It only makes sense to not add more stress to such a serious condition with a heavy backpack.
There are a few easy steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of backpack pain or injury. A more ridged bag with quality padded straps can help to evenly distribute the pressure of their load. Adjust the backpack so it is carried higher. This makes it easier to keep a healthy posture while wear a back pack. Some experts recommend that the weight of a backpack should not exceed 10-15% of the person’s body weight. There is no way to get around how many books, folders, or supplies your child needs for school, but making sure that they are taking advantage of having a locker to help keep their load as light as possible.
With rest, the majority of children should begin to feel much better. If their ache and pains do not improve with helping to correcting the stress of a backpack and rest a more serious condition may be present and should not be ignored. Chiropractors are family doctors, treating childhood health concerns.