Say No To Back Pain: Tips For Ensuring Your Kid's Backpack Isn't Harming The Spine

Preventing back problems needs to start early. As parents, you need to ensure that your child's backpack is not causing harm to his or her spine. An over-stuffed backpack that is far too heavy for your child to be carrying can cause some serious back pain that is simply unnecessary. Plus, it's not only harming your child now, but it's setting your child up for chronic pain and health issues in the future. You need to know the warning signs of an overloaded backpack and how you can help prevent any serious health problems.

Warning Signs of an Overloaded Backpack

These warning signs are somewhat basic, but they are often overlooked.

• Significant change in your child's posture when the backpack is on.
• Struggling with getting the backpack on or taking it off.
• Pain in the lower back, shoulders and neck—particularly when the backpack is on.
• Red marks from the straps on the shoulders.

Steps to Take to Prevent Injuries

First of all, the most important hing is to listen to your child. If he or she tells you that he or she is in pain, then it's crucial that you take them to a chiropractor. Back pain is not something that children complain of often, so when they do, there's something usually really wrong. Aside from taking pain seriously, here are a few other things that you need to do or take into consideration:

• Your child's backpack should never weigh over 20 percent of your child's weight. However, a more recommended percentage is 10.
• Consider asking the teacher if you can have a set of textbooks that can remain at home so that your child doesn't have to wag them back and forth between home and school.
• Avoid backpacks with only one shoulder strap. They don't distribute the weight of the backpack evenly. It can strain muscles and even cause muscle spasms. In severe cases, it may cause the spine to curve more than necessary.
• Opt for a backpack with padded shoulder straps that are wide for more comfort. A padded back is also helpful, which can keep sharp objects from poking your child in the back and alter his or her posture. Although it's always best to keep these objects toward the front of the backpack.
• Make sure that the backpack does not hang on your child's back more than a few inches below his or her waistline. Otherwise, there is too much strain on the shoulders, which can lead to your child leaning forward while walking with the backpack on. The backpack should be kept tight and close to the body.

If your child is suffering from back pain or has experienced a change in posture, it is important to speak to a chiropractor at a clinic like North Star Chiropractic Center. A professional can help relieve some of your child's pain while helping to reduce the risk of future issues.