A growing and often overlooked health problem for children is back injury arising from over-loaded, ill-fitting backpacks. Even though backpacks have long been a mainstay of student life, they can cause pain and injury at an alarming rate when used improperly. While backpacks have become a convenient way for children to transport books, lunches and supplies to and from school, they can cause lasting back problems if they are overloaded and worn incorrectly.
In a recent study of California students who carry backpacks, back pain was found to be highly prevalent, occasionally severe and sometimes chronic. As many as 55 percent of today’s students are carrying loads far in excess of the recommended limit, with some students’ packs exceeding 40 pounds.
In response to this growing health concern, Chiropractic is raising public awareness about backpack safety to help parents and children avoid unnecessary back problems. Prevention and education are the keys to warding off backpack injuries.
Children can reduce the chance of life-long injury to their backs by following a few simple steps.
Parents should ensure their children:
1. Choose a backpack that is sturdy and correctly sized
2. Select a backpack with padded shoulder straps
3. Loaded backpacks should not exceed 15 percent of the child’s weight
4. Pack heavier items closest to the back
5. Use both shoulder straps at all times
6. Tighten shoulder straps until snug, but not tight
Part of the challenge in raising awareness about backpack injuries is that the harm can occur without obvious symptoms. Like a car out of alignment, you don’t know it until the tires wear out. Young people may be experiencing mild symptoms now, but this could be a preview of future problems like chronic back pain and spinal degeneration later in life. Your doctor of chiropractic is skilled in dealing with this type of injury. Parents must be warned of the potential long-term harm caused by backpacks, and help their children take preventive steps now. You should have your child’s spinal condition checked today. Chiropractic is an excellent resource for creating a care plan to help your child throughout the healing process.
For more information, please call Dr. Joshua P. Mitchell, at 661-288-2321 to make your appointment today. We are located at 24510 Town Center Dr. Suite 200 in Valencia.