Well we're 4 weeks back to school and I already see an increase in the incidence of back pain among adolescence patients. It's a great time to remind parents and their kids of how much weight is safe for them to carry. Simple biomechanics tells us that carrying around a heavy back pack each and every day has the ability to strain even the most fit person. If that person still has a developing frame there is an even greater possibility of injury.
ADVICE:
-Purchase a good quality bag, with padded straps that fits properly to their frame size.
-Wear the bag CORRECTLY!! (Both straps on & bottom of the bag no lower than the top of their waistbands)
-Plan ahead so you don't carry unneeded books & supplies around.
-Make sure your child has adequate exercise to drop the stress from their bodies.
-Listen to what your body is telling you, if you need to rest then rest.
-Never carry more than 20% of your body weight, 10-15% is ideal.
Even if your child is not complaining of aches and pains, postural stress and fatigue are common factors that affect your child's development. Be sure to have your child's posture monitored and to have them checked for spinal subluxations. Undetected nerve interference causes damage to our nervous and skeletal systems, fatiguing and weakening us both mentally and physically.
When was the last time you had your child's posture evaluated? Call 631-647-8324 to schedule an appointment TODAY!
-Dr. Laura Islip Chiropractic
