Backpacks without Back Pain

Back to School with Gorey Family Chiropractic

As the preparation for Back to School intensifies, what school bag will you or your child choose? The correct choice can encourage good spinal health and minimise strain on your child's developing spine avoiding back pain and potential back problems in children;

These Back to School guidelines from the Gorey Family Chiropractic Clinic team are a great place to start

• Make sure that the back pack/ school bag you choose has wide padded adjustable straps.
• A bag with individualised compartments helps distribute the weight of the contents more effectively.
• Urge your child to carry the bag on both shoulders.
• Make sure the backpack weighs no more than 5 to 10% the weight of your child when full.
• The back pack should be carried on both shoulders fitted snugly against the back rather than hanging off it. This means it shouldn’t hang more than 4 inches below the waistline of your child whilst on.
• Encourage your child to adopt and upright posture rather than a rounded shoulder one.

Keeping an eye on your child’s school bag and watching out for early warning signs of developing back pain or back problems can help your child to have a successful and happy year this year and every year in school.

If you are concerned about any aspect of your child's spinal health or if you are worried about unexplained back pain or complaints from your child our specialist Chiropractic team are here to help. For a consultation please call 053 94 83338.