Florida Orthopedic: Properly Wearing a Backpack

Now that school is back in session Florida Orthopedic Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute would like to remind parents on the importance of children correctly wearing their backpacks this school year. Many children and even some adults think its trendy to wear only one strap, but according to many studies to wear a backpack slung over one shoulder or riding low on your back can lead to shoulder pain and future posture problems.

Contrary to popular belief, it's not just the weight of the backpack that’s harmful, but how it's carried. To prevent back problems and future pains, individuals should use backpacks as they were designed to be worn, with two straps, and high on their backs. It has been shown that wearing the backpack low on your back, the pressure was significantly higher than when wearing it correctly high on the back.

According to the American Academy of Orthopedics, children's backpacks should weigh no more than 15% of their body weight. At Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute we understand that many people may not realize that they are hurting themselves while wearing their backpacks incorrectly. Here are some recommendations from Florida orthopedic Sea Spine Orthopedic Institute for choosing the right backpack and using it correctly.

Choose the right sized pack: The backpack should fit between the top or your child’s shoulders and lower back. 

Proper Straps: Adjustable shoulder straps help distribute the weight of the backpack better across the shoulders and chest. This ensures the backpack can be worn comfortably against the person’s body.  There should not be a gap between the backpack and your body.

Distribute the weight get a backpack made of lightweight materials, and if you can make sure it has various small compartments to distribute the weight.

Time limit. One should wear the backpack for 30 minutes or less. Unless you’re on an all-day hike.

Get in Shape: Exercising and staying fit can increase your strength and ability to carry heavy backpacks, which will reduce your chance of injury. Even if it’s not for wearing a backpack staying healthy is essential.  

Proper chiropractic care is a very effective way to get rid of your child’s backpack related pain.  If your child is experiencing back and neck pain or headaches, it may be a good time to get checked by a local chiropractor. If you're looking for professional and experienced high-rated Florida orthopedic surgeons, contact SeaSpine Orthopedic Institute today at (http://www.seaspineortho.com/) or call  866-816-ORTHO.