No parent wants their child to be in pain. With the right choice and a good way of carrying it, you prevent many complaints later in life.

Selecting a backpack

First of all, choose a backpack that supports well and does not place unnecessary pressure on a particular part of the body. A children's backpack is light in material and in proportion to the child's body size. Buying a large bag on the idea that more will fit in it mainly causes problems.

Look for backpacks with several separate compartments, as this distributes the weight better. Padded shoulder straps at least a few centimetres wide and a hip belt are also points to look out for when buying.

Packing the backpack

When packing, distribute the weight evenly and make sure the backpack weighs less than 15 per cent of the child's body weight. If the bag is too heavy, the child bends forward to compensate for the weight. Pack the heaviest items closest to the back, and leave out what does not need to come along.

Carrying the backpack

Adjust the shoulder straps so the backpack sits close to the body. That way the weight distributes evenly across the spine and you prevent walking lopsidedly. Always have your child use both straps, so the load stays symmetrical. Teach your child to bend through the knees to pick up the bag, rather than from the back.

Potential problems

We often think children are at less risk than adults when carrying a heavy backpack. Most chiropractors in Geldermalsen can tell you this is not true: children get the same complaints. Regularly carrying a backpack that is too heavy can lead to:

• Back and shoulder pain
• Numbness and tingling in the arms
• Poor posture
• Reduced blood flow
• Headaches and neck pain
• A disrupted natural curve of the spine
• Muscle tension from overcompensation

The wrong backpack lays the foundation for physical complaints later in life. If you recognise one or more of these signs in your child, take these tips to heart and feel free to drop by Chiropractie Rivierenland; get in touch.

Share this post: