Backpack Basics:How to Wear It Right to avoid back pain
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and kids are gearing up for another year of learning. One essential item on every student's list is a backpack. However, what many may not realize is that an ill-fitting or improperly packed backpack can lead to back pain and discomfort, especially for younger children.
In this Video Dr. Robin talks about:
How to select the right backpack based on your child’s size
What features decrease the chance of back pain
How to wear the backpack and distirbute weight.
How to put on the backpack without strain
If your child still chooses to wear their backpack hanging down by their legs, both chiropractors treat children so please don’t hesitate to ask us if we can help your family members. Hopefully by following these tips, you can help ensure that your child enjoys a pain-free and healthy school year.
If you have any questions about this video or need some help feeling better, feel free to reach out to us, Dr. Robin Armstrong or Dr. Jody Freedman. We’re always happy to help. You can book with us online or give us a call.
Backpack Safety: Tips to Prevent Back Pain in Kids
As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and kids are gearing up for another year of learning. One essential item on every student's list is a backpack. However, what many may not realize is that an ill-fitting or improperly packed backpack can lead to back pain and discomfort, especially for younger children. In our latest video, Dr. Robin Armstrong, a chiropractor at Willowbrook Chiropractic in Langley, shares invaluable advice on how to select, pack, and wear backpacks to prevent back pain in children and teens.
Selecting the Right Backpack
The first step in preventing back pain is choosing the right backpack. Dr. Armstrong emphasizes the importance of selecting a backpack that is appropriate for your child's size. For teenagers, most standard backpacks will suffice, but for younger children, it's crucial to find a backpack that is not too large. Ideally, the backpack should be about the size of your child's torso and should not hang below their lower back. Cushioned straps are also important to ensure comfort and prevent the straps from digging into your child's shoulders.
Packing the Backpack
Once you've selected the right backpack, the next step is to pack it properly. Dr. Armstrong advises parents to prioritize what goes into the backpack and keep it as light as possible. The general rule of thumb is that the backpack should not exceed 10-15% of your child's body weight. For example, a 100-pound child should carry no more than 10-15 pounds. Heavier items, such as water bottles and textbooks, should be placed at the bottom, while lighter items, like raincoats and loose papers, should go on top.
Wearing the Backpack Correctly
Properly wearing the backpack is just as important as selecting and packing it. Dr. Armstrong highlights the importance of wearing the backpack snugly against the back, with the straps pulled tight to eliminate any gap between the bag and the back. The backpack should not hang down by the hips or rise above the shoulders. Additionally, using a chest strap or waist belt can help redistribute the weight and reduce strain on the back.
Additional Tips
Dr. Armstrong also offers a helpful tip for putting on the backpack: have your child place the backpack on a surface, such as a desk or counter, before slipping their arms into the straps. This method reduces the strain of lifting the backpack from the ground. If your child is already experiencing back pain, consider consulting a chiropractor. Willowbrook Chiropractic offers treatments for children, and you can book an appointment online.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your child enjoys a pain-free and healthy school year. For more detailed advice and insights, watch our video with Dr. Robin Armstrong.
