Backpacks Can Cause Pain: How to Pick a Good One
By Virginia Laird
As a student, one of my favorite parts of heading back to school was hunting for the right backpack. I can remember digging through dozens of bags at various stores searching for the right one. Many students still share this feeling as they prepare to go back to class. Chiropractors advise that as you shop for the perfect bag with your student, it may be necessary to help them find one that can prevent back pain. A few tips offered by chiropractors include:
- Consider a backpack with wheels
- Lift your backpack with your legs
- Prioritize chiropractic care
Consider a Backpack with Wheels
For many students, backpacks can become a heavy burden. Research suggests that carrying heavy bags (of any sort) for a long period of time can cause injury to the spine. In some cases, the damage done may be irreparable. Chiropractors advise those who may struggle with back pain, and their school allows, should consider investing in a backpack with wheels. This can prevent the weight of the load from tugging on the spine. Check with your student’s school before making the investment, as some may not allow these types to be carried.
Lift Your Backpack with Your Legs
Chiropractors have long suggested that those who lift any type of heavy load should do so with the leg muscles. Lifting with the back can be the cause of pain and injury that for some may require long-term treatment. For those who may be unsure about how to lift with the legs, it is best to remember that this requires you to bend at the knees when reaching for the heavy item. Any time you find yourself bending at the waist, you are about to use your back to lift and should stop immediately and try again. Chiropractors admit that making this change can prove to be difficult. However, over time it can become a natural habit to lift with the leg muscles.
Prioritize Chiropractic Care
If you have ever been to the chiropractor, you already understand how wonderful these visits can be. Chiropractors would remind you that these visits are not limited to adults only and can be used to help your children with back pain as well. If you find your student lugging around pounds of books or a heavy backpack, consider introducing chiropractic care. Routine visits can help prevent pain before it gets started and eliminate pain that may already exist.
When you are ready to begin your child on a personalized pain prevention and health care plan, drop by The Joint Chiropractic in your community. With more than 400 locations nationwide you are sure to find one near your neighborhood. And, with no appointment necessary, getting your child started can be as easy as dropping by on your way home from school.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.