Back to School and Chiropractic Care

It is time for Back to School and with that comes the strain of carrying backpacks that are too heavy for our children to and from school.  While few studies have actually looked at the effects on our children, it is a known fact that carrying a back pack can lead to chronic back pain, poor posture and even difficulties in lung function.

It has been found in studies that children should carry no more than 10% of their body weight, yet frequently children in elementary, middle school, high school and college frequently carry much heavier loads.  In addition, many children complain of back pain with females and those with scoliosis reporting the highest rate of problems, while those with access to lockers reporting the least issues.  In fact, some even need to resort to medication to alleviate the pain and often pain can cause a lower activity rate.

While backpack design has little effect on how much pain children experience, there are ways to help reduce the issue besides carrying less weight.  Children should take frequent locker breaks and only carry the items needed for classes.  When lifting their backpacks it is important to lift from the knees rather than the waist to reduce the strain on the spinal cord.  They also should alternate the way they carry their backpacks if possible.

The  The American Occupational Therapy Association and the American Chiropractic Association also suggest:

• Children should avoid carrying over 10 percent of their bodyweight in their backpack. For example, an 8th-grader weighing 120 pounds should carry no more than 12 pounds.
• Place the heaviest objects at the back of the pack.
• Make sure the items fit as snugly as possible to minimize back pain due to shifting weight.
• Adjust the shoulder straps so they fit snugly over your child’s shoulders and the backpack doesn’t drag your child backward. The bottom of the pack should be less than four inches below your child’s waist.
• Children should avoid carrying backpacks slung over one shoulder, as it can cause spinal pain and general discomfort.
• Encourage your child to carry only necessary items in their backpack. Additional items can be carried in hand.
• Look for backpacks with helpful features such as multiple compartments for even weight distribution, padded straps to protect the shoulders and neck, and waist belt.
• If your child’s school allows, consider a rollerpack, which rolls across the floor like a suitcase.
• If problems continue, talk to your child’s teacher or principal about implementing paperback textbooks, lighter materials, or digital versions.

Regular chiropractic care can also alleviate back pain from carrying a backpack and reduce spinal stress, increase joint pain and improve posture.  It is important to be consistent with care to prevent long-term issues from back pain and it can reduce the need for medication.  We can help your child feel their best.  Schedule an appointment today!