Back to School Back Pain
Your child's backpack may be to blame
School is almost back in session, which can mean backpack back pain.
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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.
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What can you do to help?
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Make sure your child is wearing their backpack correctly. It shouldn't hang more than 4 inches below the waistline.
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Straps should be worn on both shoulders to distribute weight evenly.
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Make sure your child's backpack is as small as possible but also being able to hole all necessary contents.
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Find a bag with wide, padded straps to distribute pressure and maintain the comfort of the child or teen.
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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.
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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.
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​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. ​
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Call the office or click here to schedule an appointment with Dr.Mark Dumas.
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