BACK TO SCHOOL BACKPACK RULES!
Time to take out the books, pencils and backpacks. That’s right, it’s time to go back to school! Choosing the correct backpack is important to give your little ones the best opportunity to learn without unnecessary discomfort. An improperly fitting backpack can be a source of pain, making it harder for children to pay attention and retain information during class. That is not the only issue with an unsuitable backpack. An ill-fitting backpack that is too heavy can lead to permanent damage! Oviedo Injury and Wellness Center has got your back, literally! Here are 3 easy to follow backpack rules to ensure your child has a pain free school year and avoids any potential life-long postural deformities.
Rule #1: Backpacks should be worn correctly and should not be too heavy
A hefty and heavy backpack that is not positioned properly causes the child to lean forward to compensate for the excess weight. This forward posture is like “tech neck” because it causes headaches, neck, shoulder and back pain. Holding the body in a forward, protruding position causes the muscles in the neck, abdominals and back to weaken over time. Unless the backpack is changed to fit properly it can result in a permanent deficient position. To avoid this, measure your child/children from the top of their shoulders to their natural waistline. This will help you to find the right size backpack that properly fits.
- A student who measures15” or less should have a small backpack with a maximum of 1650 cubic inch capacity.
- A student who measures between 15” and 17” should have a medium backpack with a maximum of 2000 cubic inch capacity.
- A student who measures more than 17” should have a larger backpack with a maximum of 2600 cubic inch capacity.
- The bottom of the backpack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never rest more than four inches below the child’s waistline. This maintains the natural curve of the spine and alleviates the stress on the back.
- Never allow a child to carry more than 15% of his or her body weight. For example, a child who weighs 100 pounds should not carry a backpack that weighs more than 15 pounds.
Rule #2: Ensure that the backpack has ample padding on the straps and backing.
Straps should have sufficient padding. Unpadded straps restrict circulation in the neck and arms. When looking for a backpack, opt for one with straps on the top and bottom. This will allow for a perfect two-point fit from shoulder to waist. Adjust the backpack to fit high and tight. Always wear both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly. The back of the pack should also have enough cushion to protect your child’s back from any sharp edges on the objects inside. Pack only what your child needs for the day to avoid excess weight. Load the heaviest items closest to the back to maintain center of gravity. Make sure to organize school supplies. This will keep the materials from sliding around causing more weight to be on one side.
Rule #3: Get adjusted at Oviedo Injury and Wellness Center!
Now is the time to schedule your adjustment with our top-rated chiropractic Oviedo office. Dr. Ressler is a chiropractor in Oviedo that uses a specialized instrument called an “activator.” The activator is a small hand-held tool that corrects only one vertebra at a time. This technique is a highly effective and gentle chiropractic method. It involves no twisting or cracking and is safe for all ages. Maintaining spinal alignment is essential to prevent pain and a potential injury from occurring. Getting adjusted ensures that your child starts school off right and aligned. There are many Oviedo chiropractors to choose from. Dr. Ressler has many years of experience adjusting children of all ages. Our chiropractic Oviedo office is in network with many healthcare plans and offers a discount for students without insurance. Dr. Ressler also provides low-cost student physicals in his Oviedo chiropractic office. With same day appointments and flexible hours at our chiropractic Oviedo office students can get the care they need without missing any school. Call 407-977-5005 or click here to schedule your appointment today!