Backpack Safety for Your Kids!

 "In 2001, statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported over 7,000 backpack related injuries to the emergency room," states the American Chiropractic Association.

A child wearing a heavy backpack can cause increased pressure on developing spinal joints, discs, and surrounding tissue. If carrying a heavy load often, the child may experience spinal dysfunction and postural distortions, things that later on in the child's life can lead to chronic health issues. It can be a pain in the neck, literally! To counter balance the backpack, kids will slump forward to compensate causing excess strain on the upper back and neck muscles. 

Use this checklist to ensure your child's safety:

1. Backpack should be 5-10% of the child's body weight, no heavier than 20%

2. Straps should be warn on both shoulders, never just one shoulder

3. Straps should be pulled tight so the backpack is held higher on the child's back, no less than 4 inches above waistline (having a low hanging backpack puts excess strain on lower back joints)

4. Invest in a smaller backpack so the child isn't tempted to utilize the extra space in a larger backpack. This will also promote more exercise due to increased trips to their locker

5. The wider the straps, the better. This ensures more comfort

6. Purchase smaller notebooks or one large binder to put notes from different subjects in

7. Use a roller backpack! This is the simplest way to ensure safety. 

If your child continues to feel back pain, call your Chiropractic Physician to make an appointment. The pain may not be soley due to a heavy backpack.

Feel Better, Live Better

934 East Main Road

Portsmouth RI 

(401) 683-6430

www.newhorizonchiro.com