One of the most essential items for kids as they head back to school is the backpack. It’s a staple of the school year, but here at Upper Cervical Health Centers, we see firsthand how backpacks can be one of the leading causes of back and shoulder pain in children. It’s something most parents don’t think about until their child starts complaining, but it’s more common than you might realize.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 6,500 emergency room visits each year involve children aged 5-18 due to injuries related to heavy backpacks or book bags. That’s a staggering number! Additional research shows that by the time they reach their teen years, nearly 60% of kids have experienced at least one episode of low-back pain. A significant portion of this can be traced back to the loads they carry to and from school every day.
As the school year kicks off, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent unnecessary back pain. I’ve got a few tips that can make a big difference in how your child carries their backpack and, more importantly, how their body handles the load.
First, it’s essential to monitor how much weight your child is carrying. A general rule of thumb is that a backpack should weigh no more than 15% of your child’s body weight. For example, if your child weighs 60 pounds, their backpack should not be heavier than nine pounds. This might mean encouraging them to leave some books in their locker or at home rather than carting everything around all day.
When selecting a backpack, look for one with padded shoulder straps. Non-padded straps can dig into the shoulders and neck, leading to discomfort and even long-term issues. Also, make sure your child uses both straps when carrying the backpack. I know it’s tempting for them to just sling it over one shoulder, but that can lead to uneven strain on the back and shoulders, causing muscle spasms and low-back pain.
The fit of the backpack is also crucial. It should never be wider or longer than your child’s torso and shouldn’t hang more than four inches below their waistline. A backpack that’s too large or hangs too low can cause your child to lean forward, putting unnecessary stress on their lower back and neck.
Additionally, a backpack with a padded back can provide extra comfort and help distribute the weight more evenly. Make sure the backpack is packed properly, with heavier items closer to the back and distributed evenly, so it doesn’t put extra strain on one side of the body.
We all know that backpacks are a necessity for getting homework and supplies to and from school, and that’s not going to change anytime soon. However, by following these simple tips, you can help prevent back, shoulder, and neck injuries in your child.
Finally, it’s important to remember that a healthy spine can better withstand the stresses of a heavy load. If your child is complaining of headaches, back pain, or shoulder discomfort, it might be time to bring them into Upper Cervical Health Centers for a spine check. A few gentle adjustments could make all the difference, keeping your child’s nervous system functioning optimally and their school year pain-free.
We offer a free spinal check to find out if your child’s spine is in proper alignment. Call Dr. Lee Angle at Upper Cervical Health Centers, today for an appointment 239-243-8810 Dr. Lee Angle, presents a distinct pathway to healing. The positive effects of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treatment extend beyond conventional approaches, addressing the root cause of pain in the upper cervical spine.
