So after another long wait, it looks like our children may be able to get back into the classroom this September.  If you have chosen to let your child ro children attend school, we have to think about the kids and everything they are required to carry to and from school.

The size of the backpack really does matter to the health of their backs.  This month, we are looking at backpacks and what we should keep in mind when fitting our children for a backpack.  Kids and backpacks just seem to go together.  Whether you are heading out on holiday with the kids or sending them off to school, chances are they’ll be packing a backpack.  If they don’t know how to choose, load, lift, and wear a pack properly it can be a pain in the back.

Teaching children the importance of properly using thier backpacks is key to helping them avoid injury.

Backpacks can affect your children’s health:

Carrying a heavy load that is unevenly orimproperly distributed can result in poor posture; and even distort the spinal column, throwing it out of alignment.  This can cause muscle strain, headaches, back, neck and arm pain, and even nerve damage.

Prevention is Key:

Choosing the right backpack: Go for lightweight vinyl or canvas.  Pick a pack that has two wide adjustable, padded shoulder straps, along with a hip or waist strap, padded back and plenty of pockets.

Packing it porperly: Make sure your child’s pack contains only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distribured evenly.  The total weight of the filled pack should be no more than 10 to 15 percent of the wearer’s body weight.

Putting it on: Put the pack on a flat surface, at waist level.  Slip on the pack, one shoulder at a time, and then adjust the straps to fit comfortably.

Wearing it right: Both shoulder straps should be used, and adjusted so that the pack fits snugly to the body, without dangling to the side.  You should only be able to slide your flat hand between the backpack and your child’s back.

If you find that the backpack is going to be to heavy for your little one, don’t let them carry it!  A wagon is a good option, as is a backpack on wheels for them to roll like a suitecase!

More than 50% of young people experience at least one episode of low back pain by their teenage years.  Research indicates one cause is improper use of backpacks.  So pack it light and wear it right!

If your child is experiencing back pain, consult a Chiropractor or other health care professional to assess your specific needs and identify a course of action that’s right for them.

SUMMER MOVEMENT CHALLANGE!

Check out the links on the webiste, and social media-Facebook: @DrFrederickChiropractic, Instagram: @dr_frederick_chiropractic to see the video for this challenge and see what you can do!  Show Dr. Frederick next time you are in the office to be entered to win and awsome prize.

Also, don’t orget to follow our amazing massage therapist Lori on Facebook: @LorraineTangen RMT or instagram: @LTangenRMT