Avoiding Back Pain: 3 Tips for Selecting a Backpack
By Virginia Laird
Finding the right backpack can be a chore. While many believe it is one of the more simple tasks of getting ready for school, there are many things to consider before making the purchase. Chiropractors advise that finding a backpack that protects the spine from pain can be a factor in preventing injury as well. A few tips chiropractors have suggested to follow while shopping for backpacks include:
- Find a backpack with two straps
- Try to minimize your the weight of your bag
- Consider a trip to the chiropractor
Find a Backpack with Two Straps
Chiropractors suggest that having your children carry backpacks with two wide shoulder straps can help prevent injury of the spine. As the weight of the books add up to be extremely heavy, the load can tug at the spine and cause restriction. Having two wide (two-inch) straps can help even out the load and prevent such tugging. It is also suggested that you make sure these straps can be properly adjusted. The chiropractic recommendation is that the top of the backpack should rest between the shoulders. This can help prevent injury to the spine.
Try to Minimize the Weight of Your Bag
Where possible, chiropractors suggest that it is best to lighten the load of the backpack. This can be done by encouraging your student to leave the books not needed in their lockers. Another tip is to have your kids use more than one bag. Keeping the load light is a good way to prevent pain in the back. Research indicates that millions of students report experiencing back pain after lugging around a heavy backpack just a few short weeks into the school year.
Consider a Trip to the Chiropractor
Although many believe that chiropractic care is only for adults, this is not the case. Chiropractic care is safe for people of all ages. Chiropractors works to restore function to the spine that gets restricted from everyday activity, as well as a host of things that put strain on the spine. If you are ready to begin your children (or yourself) on a pain prevention plan, drop by The Joint Chiropractic nearest you and get started right away. With more than 400 locations nationwide you are sure to find one near you. There's no need to hassle with insurance or appointments, either; just drop in.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Las Vegas, Nev.