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Is Your Child's Backpack Causing Them Back Pain?

Written By Levinson Chiropractic & Vax-D Therapy on October 9, 2018

 

Nearly 80% of children and young people report having low back pain by the time they reach the age of 20. This startling statistic is a result of some of the ways modern living is affecting the spinal health of the pediatric population.

One of the factors in the increase of back pain in children is the wearing of backpacks that exceed the recommended 10% of body weight. 

In fact, research shows that 70% of children wear backpacks that are heavier than the recommended weight.

How Backpacks Affect Posture

While a properly-fitted backpack can help children carry schoolbooks and other necessities in a way that spreads the weight across the stronger muscles of the shoulder and upper back, an overloaded or ill-fitting pack can cause stress and strain on the spine and back muscles.

Typically, over-weighted backpacks contribute to:

  • Distortion of the natural spinal curves
  • Muscle strain and stress on the joints of the spine
  • Rounding of shoulders
  • Muscles stress from imbalance when pack is carried over one shoulder only

With this kind of functional stress, it’s no wonder there’s a rise in children with spinal and muscular pain.

Ways to Protect Your Child’s Spine from Back Pain 

First, ensure your child has a backpack that’s properly sized. When fully loaded, the pack should weigh no more than 10% of your child’s body weight.

Thick, (at least two inches wide) adjustable straps will help protect shoulders and provide stability, and a hip strap can aid in redistributing weight.

Backpacks with wheels can allow children with heavier loads to avoid carrying them altogether. 

If your child is currently experiencing back pain, see a pediatric chiropractor to determine the root cause and to get treatment to return his or her spine to health.

A Sandy Springs Chiropractor for Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Does your child have back pain? Getting early treatment by a pediatric chiropractor can ensure the best treatment to protect your child’s spine.

If you live in or near the Sandy Springs area, stop in at Levinson Chiropractic. Dr. Levinson has over 25 years of experience treating children — and adults — for back pain and spinal issues. 

Dr. Levinson can assess your child’s spine, develop a treatment plan, and recommend lifestyle and habit changes that can help relieve pain — and prevent it from recurring.

Call (404) 257-0404 today to get fast, safe, effective relief for your child’s back pain.


Posted In: Chiropractic Posture