Boxtel Chiropractor discusses the correct children's backpacks

Although children are smaller than adults and their bodies are still growing and developing, parents tend to overload them with backpacks that are far too heavy and unbalanced. Low back pain is Americans' most common health problem, and in many cases, it all starts in childhood with those oversized backpacks. None of the parents want their child to suffer, so listen to the advice of a Boxtel chiropractor when it comes to good children's backpacks.

SELECT A BACKPACK

The first order of business is to select a backpack that is supportive and does not put undue stress on any part of a child's body. Children's backpacks should be of lightweight material and proportionate to the size of the child's body. Buying large backpacks with the thought of fitting more in it only creates problems.

Look for backpacks with several individual compartments to help you balance weight effectively. Padded shoulder straps that are at least two inches wide and a belt that wraps around the waist are also features to look out for when making your purchase.

PACKING THE BACKPACK

When packing the backpack, carry the weight evenly and make sure that it weighs less than 15% of the child's body weight. If it is too heavy, the child leans forward slightly to try to compensate for the weight on the shoulders. The heaviest items in the backpack should be packed closest to the body and if not necessary, let it out.

WEARING THE BACKPACK

When a child is wearing a backpack, the shoulder straps should be adjusted so that the backpack is close to the body. This distributes the weight of the pack evenly across the spine and prevents misalignment. It is important that children use both straps on the backpack so that the weight distribution remains the same. You should also show your child how to bend at the knees to pick up the backpack and instruct him not to bend or bend at the waist while wearing.

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS

For some reason, we don't seem to think that kids are at risk for the same kind of physical problems adults have when it comes to carrying heavy backpacks. Most chiropractors in Boxtel will tell you that this is not true and that children can have many of the same problems as adults. Regular use of a heavy backpack can result in:

• Back and shoulder pain
• Numbness and tingling in the arms
• Bad attitude
• Reduced blood flow
• Headache and neck pain
• Distorted natural spine curvature
• Muscle tension caused by overcompensation

Carrying an improper backpack sets the stage for many physical problems later in life. If you are unsure how to proceed, or if your child is already showing some of the above symptoms, please contact our Boxtel Chiropractic team today.