The Start of School Can Mean Back Pain for Kids
By Tom Herrin
As it nears time for the start of school again, kids everywhere begin to get a little excited and anxious. Everyone knows they have a pile of supplies to purchase. They also know that once they get ready to carry all of those supplies to school, they will need something to carry them in. Almost every kid gets a new backpack each year. It is one of those things that indicates they are ready to successfully embark on another yearlong journey. It is pretty well known that backpacks reflect something about every individual’s personality. Some younger children are thrilled to carry a backpack adorned with their favorite mouse, duck, or fish cartoon character. Older children may be more into some kind of action series. Either way, improper use of backpacks can result in back pain for kids. If this happens to one of your children, a visit to a chiropractor at The Joint can help them to be on a path to better health.
Peers Can Set A Wrong Example
Unknowingly to children, they are greatly influenced by their friends and others. Most of them want to look as cool as possible. Carrying a heavily loaded backpack can strain a back. Carrying a pack over one shoulder can cause them to shift their balance to an extreme to compensate, causing strain as well. Simply carrying a pack hanging too low can damage a back, too.
Parents Can Encourage Children to Make Better Choices
If children can learn to select smaller backpacks, they could be off to a better start. Carrying less weight is always good. While studies have shown that many children carry 20 percent or more of their body weight in backpacks, it has been suggested that a better choice would be to carry only 5-10 percent of their body weight on their backs. They also need to carry a pack that does not hang down below the waist. Carrying the pack over both shoulders can provide better balance and support.
Make Better Health A Family Practice
Educating the entire family about the best practices for carrying weight can be a great way to promote good health. At The Joint Chiropractic, they have plans that can work for all ages. No insurance is required, no appointments are needed. They are available to relieve pain days and evenings, weekdays and weekends at all of their more than 380 locations nationwide. If you have any family member experience back pain, drop in at The Joint Chiropractic today and begin enjoying that healthy lifestyle.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Diego, Calif.