Taken from www.globaltvbc.com
Pack it light and wear it right: How to choose the best backpack for your child
Peter Meiszner, Global News :
VANCOUVER - Getting students ready for back to school can be a pain in the neck for parents, but one challenge is ensuring it is not a pain in the back for children.
The B.C. Chiropractic Association recommends backpacks with two wide, padded straps, to ensure weight is evenly distributed. Narrow straps that dig into the back and shoulders can cause problems.
“With children, the bone structure hasn’t hardened or formed completely, as bone growth continues to 18 years of age,” says Dr. Don Nixdorf, Executive Director of the B.C. Chiropractic Association.
“There is going to be discomfort if the weight is not distributed well across the shoulders and collar bone.”
Nixdorf says canvas backpacks are better than vinyl because they last longer. He says it’s also important to choose a backpack with padding on the back, as well as the straps.
A waist or hip strap will also provide weight bearing support.
The way the backpack is loaded is also important.
“Put heavier items at the bottom, closer to the body. Heavy books should be at the bottom against the back to maintain good posture and centre of gravity,” says Nixdorf.
“The earlier we start to load the skeleton, it has an impact on the weight across the collar bone, and right down the spine.”
A good rule of thumb is 15% of the child’s body weight, or 10% for younger kids.
When putting the backpack on, place it on a table, and then put the straps on one at a time.
The load will feel lighter if you choose a backpack with plenty of compartments.
Trying to look cool with one strap hanging off the shoulder can cause problems.
“Always use two straps, don’t just hang the one of the shoulder – it cranks all the weight bearing right on to one side of spine, and will affect right down to the hips and the spine.”
Nixdorf says the key to avoiding back issues, apart from choosing the right backpack and using it correctly, is to maintain movement and stay physically active.
For more on choosing the right backpack, visit www.bcchiro.com/backpacksafety
Top tips for backpacks:
- Lighten the load unless you want to end up with a hunch
- Straighten up, and lose some of the load off your shoulder
- Always bend your knees to lift
- The load will seem much lighter if you pick a backpack with plenty of compartments
- Wear both shoulder straps
- Place the backpack on a table before putting the straps on one at a time
- Carry the heaviest items closest to your body
- Use the waist belt and adjust the straps
Check out our selection of Backpacks HERE
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