So after a long wait, it looks like our children may be able to attend school this September. If you have chosen to let your child or 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.

[1]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 their backpacks is key to helping them avoid injury.

Backpacks can affect your children’s health

Carrying a heavy load that is unevenly or improperly 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 properly: Make sure your child’s pack contains only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distributed 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 height. 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.

More than 50 per cent 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.

Since we are unable to have a contest in the office. We thought that it would be fun to try a virtual contest.

It could not get any easier. All we are asking is that you send in your favorite joke, or your favorite recipe, or even your favorite scenic picture. With every entry your name with be entered into a draw. The draw will take place Tuesday September 8, 2020.

Email your entry to: drjessalynnfrederick@gmail.com

Just a reminder for Dr. Frederick’s patients and Lori’s clients to complete your Covid-19 Screening email 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us by visiting our web site at:

www.drfrederickchiropractic.com

or

Contact us: Phone #: (519) 472-8700 or

Email: drjessalynnfrederick@gmail.com

[1] https://chiropractic.on.ca/public/self-management/pack-light-wear-right-blog-post/