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Now that school is back in session here is what you need to know about backpack safety!

Now that school is back in session here is what you need to know about backpack safety...

Backpacks are a popular and practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body's strongest muscles.

 

A backpack that is too heavy and is worn incorrectly on the back causes the child to assume an extreme forward posture in an effort to compensate for the additional weight. This can lead to headaches, backaches, shoulder pain and numbness/tingling into the arms. After long periods of time, it can lead to a weakening of muscles in the neck, mid-back, abdominal muscles, and low back. Those muscles can end up “molded” into permanent deficient positions.

 

LOADING A BACKPACK:

  • Load heaviest items closest to the child’s back to maintain their center of gravity.
  • Pack items neatly and organized to keep books and materials from sliding around in the pack, which causes shifting of weight to one side.
  • Multiple zippered outer compartments provide easy storage for keys, pens, pencils and calculators.
  • Pack only what you need for that day
  • Never allow a child to carry more than 15% of his or her body weight. That means a child who weighs 100 pounds should not carry a school backpack that weighs more than 15 pounds

 

PARENTAL TIPS:

  • Monitor what your child is carrying to school each day to help him or her avoid carrying unnecessary items which add weight to the backpack.
  • Encourage children to exercise to strengthen muscles in the torso, including the lower back and abdominal muscles.



If your child is suffering from neck or back pain, please do not hesitate to call 407-977-5005. Dr. Ressler uses a special tool that adjusts the neck and back without any twisting or cracking. It is safe, effective and gets great results!