Are you starting to prep for the upcoming school year? Do you check how heavy your child’s backpack is?
Overloaded backpacks are not only uncomfortable for our children, but they can cause serious due to the disproportionate amount of weight being hauled around. A child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10% of his or her body weight. Data from the Product Safety Commission reports that backpack-related injuries sent more than 6,000 people to the emergency room in 2016 alone.
Using ergonomically appropriate backpacks is also significant, to avoid bending forward to counterbalance for the weight, which causes muscle strain and possible spinal misalignment. Heavy backpack use over time can contribute to scoliotic curvatures within the spine. Both shoulder straps should always be utilized to evenly distribute the weight being carried, along with the straps being properly adjusted.
Gentle spinal adjustments can benefit your children if they are experiencing pain, discomfort or tightness resulting from heavy backpack use. There are unique, simple exercises our children can perform as well, to develop the proper muscles and improve posture.
If you would like to get your children find some relief and education about heavy backpack issues, call us today at Fogarty Chiropractic Life Clinic at (321) 636-5200 to schedule your initial appointment.
