Back to School: Backpack Safety and Wellness

Backpacks can get heavy, and if you have noticed your child struggling to put it on or complaining about the weight, you want to take notice. Backpacks that are too heavy can cause a lot of problems in children that may even require a pediatric chiropractor in Santa Barbara.

Choose the Right Backpack

You want to begin by choosing ergonomic backpacks for your children. When looking for these, they should be the right size. They shouldn't be wider than your children’s torsos or be more than four inches below their waists. They should have padded backs to make them more comfortable, as well as padded adjustable straps to distribute weight properly. There should be multiple compartments to help make sure the weight is distributed more efficiently. Compression straps are also good to help stabilize the contents. If you choose backpacks with reflective material, it will allow your children to be more easily seen when walking to and from school, such as during rainy days or in the morning.

Use the Backpack Correctly

Your child should use both straps since only using one can shift weight from one side and cause posture issues and pain. The straps should be tightened so the backpack is properly fitted. A loose backpack can cause spinal pain. Encourage your children to use the compression straps to help them adjust the load.

Pack the Backpack Correctly

While a roomy backpack may seem good, having too big a backpack can encourage your child to fill it. Make sure your children know what is necessary to carry. If it’s not essential, have them leave it in their locker, classroom, or at home. Proper loading technique for backpacks includes packing the heavy items first and near the center of the back and the bottom. Multiple compartments can make for better distribution.

Get Chiropractic Care

If your child is complaining of back pain, a visit to a pediatric chiropractor in Santa Barbara can be helpful. Chiropractic care can include adjustments to make sure the spine is aligned after poor posture caused by carrying a backpack. Contact us at Advanced Chiropractic Group to schedule an appointment for your children today.