Back to School Back Pain

Your child's backpack may be to blame

Click Here to Schedule Your Child's Appointment

School is almost back in session, which can mean backpack back pain.

The American Chiropractic Association recommends that your child carry no more than 5-10% of their body weight in a backpack. Any more can cause your child to lean forward in an attempt to support the weight.

What can you do to help?

Make sure your child is wearing their backpack correctly. It shouldn't hang more than 4 inches below the waistline.
Straps should be worn on both shoulders to distribute weight evenly.
Make sure your child's backpack is as small as possible but also being able to hole all necessary contents.
Find a bag with wide, padded straps to distribute pressure and maintain the comfort of the child or teen.
School books can weigh between 2 and 3 pounds per piece, plus lunchbox and food, pen and pencil cases, and other necessary items - they all add up.
If your child mentions pain or numbness in their back or shoulders, you see marks or indentations on their shoulders, or you notice your child is slouching or leaning - take necessary actions to lighten the load.
It's also essential to have them lift with their legs and bend at their knees, and avoid wiggling and lifting at the same time.

Call the office or click here to schedule an appointment with Dr.Mark Dumas.