The first thing you need to do is select a GREAT backpack. It should have lots of pockets and compartments to equally distribute weight, it should have padded shoulder straps and it should even have a waist belt to help take the load off when they need it the most.
Next, the bag needs to be worn properly. Every time I see a kid with the backpack on one shoulder, I think about the adults in my practice with one shoulder much higher than the other in the postural exam. Make sure they wear both shoulder straps and that the straps are tight enough that the bag rides above their bum. Loose straps put undue shoulder and rotational stress on their spines when they turn.
Next, children should not be carrying all their books and binders and lunch and everything else back and forth from home every day. If Johnny doesn’t have math every day he can leave his book at home, or in his locker on his days off. The weight of the bag should never exceed 15% of the child’s body weight. So if your child weighs 60 lbs, the bag should not weigh more than 9 lbs.
Now that you have the info, happy shopping for that perfect bag and the very light contents to fill it!
Dr. Travis Pillipow DC, BSc.
Dr. Sarah Tremblay, DC BHPE
Health In Hand Family Chiropractic
104-1195 Industrial Rd. Kelowna,
BC VIZ 1G4
250-454-9474
http://www.healthinhand.ca/
Adjusting you for a better life!
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