The kids are officially back to school. There is a change in the stress and strain that our children undergo as they return to school carrying all those books home in their heavy backpacks. There are three essential key factors:
- Backpacks should be 10% of the child’s total weight. Traditional backpacks, that can be carried on both shoulders, are best so they distribute the weight evenly. If your child is still small a wheeled backpack that they can pull is a good option.
- Prolonged sitting causes back pain. Those of you with desk jobs know that sitting at your desk for 6-8 hours per day can be a real pain…literally. When you sit down you lose your natural lumbar (low back) curvature and this causes compression on the nerve roots. This can lead to back pain, sciatica, numbness and tingling in legs and feet, and even restless legs at night.
- Forward flexion of the head with studying and reading. This is a carry over of “text neck.” Hopefully the kids have their heads down into a book this time of year instead of their mobile devices. As much as 60 pounds of pressure is applied to your neck when you have your chin to your chest. While they are in the reading or texting position there is a lot of strain on the neck. This will eventually cause neck pain, headaches, arm pain and tingling, and/or numbness in the hands.
The good news is that chiropractic care can help all of these conditions and children respond quickly to adjustments. Usually within just a few treatments they start to feel better… ahhhh, the good old days of youth! Depending on the condition we may not even need to take x-rays.
Give us a call as we have same day appointments available. Come find out how Dr. Myers’ passion for what he does shows up in his patient care.
Correct position to carry a back pack. High on the back with both straps over the shoulders.