All the kids are back at school after the holiday break and are maybe starting school for the first time. We know that this can be an exciting time and also a trying time physically, with new strains on their developing bodies. Posture can be a concern as our children are sitting at a desk for a lot of the school day, but the weight of their back pack can also impact them physically.
We advise you to take a moment to think about their back pack. Is it the right size? back pack? How heavy is it?
Here are some tips from the Chiropractors Association of Australia about how to carry a heavy backpack and things you can do to ensure your kids are looking after themselves during the school year.
Tips for carrying of heavy backpacks
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- Backpacks should be ideally no heavier than 10% of a student’s weight when packed.
- Make sure the backpack is sturdy and appropriately sized – no wider than the student’s chest
- Put comfort and fit at the top of the priority list, rather than good looks
- Choose a backpack with broad, padded shoulder straps
- Use both shoulder straps – never sling the pack over one shoulder
- Use waist straps attached – they are there for a good reason
- Don’t wear the backpack any lower than the hollow of the lower back
- Don’t overload the backpack – use school lockers and plan homework well in advance
- Place all heavy items at the base of the pack, close to the spine, for a better distribution of the weight
These tips are referenced from http://chiropractors.asn.au
You can read the full article here about the effect of heavy backpacks on our children as well a download the CAA Backpacks Fact Sheet
If you’re child / children are experiencing any back pain or you are concerned about posture and the impact of school everyday, please book a spinal consultation with our team to work through your individual needs.
Henley Beach – 08 8235 1922
Norwood – 08 8363 5773
Normanville – 08 8558 3834
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