With the summer ending, sometimes the only thing a parent in Huntington can think about is that dreaded "back to school" time. The stores are chaotic with quick-moving shopping carts filled to the top with folders, notebooks, #2 pencils, new clothing, sneakers and all the "stuff" that's needed for the upcoming school year. But what's often overlooked in terms of importance is the backpack. Unfortunately, kids are using and wearing their backpacks improperly. Every single parent needs to be educated on these proper backpack safety tips because if not, the bags can seriously damage their child's neck and/or back. Therefore, here are some important safety tips that Balance Chiropractic and Wellness Center you should read and share with your friends and families.

Tip #1: Choose the right size backpack

I know it can be tempting to purchase a large backpack so a child can carry more things to school at once but big backpacks can actually do a lot of harm to a child's developing spine. Make sure your child's backpack weighs no more than 5-10% of his or her body weight. Also, the backpack should never hang more than four inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child in Huntington to lean forward when walking. Please take your kids shopping with you and fit your child for a backpack; if it hangs more than four inches below their waist, then it is too big.

Tip #2: Find a bag with compartments

A backpack with compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively.

Compartments will ensure that the weight within the bag is distributed evenly which will prevent the bag from causing stress on certain areas of the back and decrease your child's risk for developing poor posture. Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child's back.

Tip #3: Choose a bag with padded, adjustable straps

While you're out shopping for a backpack, be sure to buy one that has wide, padded shoulder straps. This is very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable, and can dig into your child's shoulders which places extra pressure on the neck and shoulders. The straps should be adjustable so the backpack can be fitted specifically to your child's body. Loose straps can cause the bag to dangle uncomfortably and cause pain and spinal misalignments in Huntington so please make sure the straps are secure and comfortable.

Tip #4: Make sure that your child is wearing the bag properly

Yes, the right backpack is so important but you also need to make sure that your child is wearing the backpack the right way so they need education about this too! Children should ALWAYS use both straps. When a child only uses only one strap, that causes all the weight of the bag to move to one side which creates multiple spinal imbalances. This can lead to low back pain, neck pain, poor posture and muscle spasms down the road.

Please keep these backpack safety tips in mind this year and every year thereafter. If your child experiences any pain or discomfort, consider visiting a doctor of chiropractic (DC). DCs are licensed and trained to diagnose and treat patients of all ages and use gentler adjustments for children. In addition, DCs can also recommend exercises which are specifically designed to help children develop strong muscles, along with instruction in good nutrition, posture and sleeping habits. We owe it to our kids to give them a healthy start in life! Call Balance Chiropractic and Wellness Center today to schedule an appointment.