Is Your Childâs Backpack Safe for Them?
A child’s still-growing and developing body has unique needs. If, for example, they must carry a backpack that’s far too heavy for them, it can result in poor posture and musculoskeletal pain. Our experienced chiropractor in McKinney, Michael Prochaska, DC, recommends the following tips to ensure that your child’s backpack will not adversely affect their well-being.
Select the Right Type of Backpack for Your Child
The first step is finding an ergonomic backpack. Look for one that is an appropriate size for your child. Bigger isn’t necessarily better, as it can only encourage your child to pack more items inside and increase the weight of the pack. The backpack shouldn’t hang more than four inches below the waist or be wider than your child’s torso.
In addition, look for the following features:
- Padded Back – This will prevent potentially sharp objects in the pack from poking your child’s back.
- Shoulder Straps – The shoulder straps should be padded and adjustable, allowing for even weight distribution.
- Additional Straps – The pack should have waist and chest straps in addition to shoulder straps. This further encourages proper weight distribution.
- Multiple Compartments – Instead of a bag with one large compartment, look for one with multiple places to store items. This also assists with weight distribution (and helps your child keep their possessions organized).
Encourage Your Child to Use the Backpack Safely
Once you’ve found the right backpack, you’ll need to help your child learn how to use it safely. Our chiropractor in McKinney can also do a posture evaluation for your child, and help your child understand the importance of protecting the back and neck. Use the following guidelines:
- Keep it light. Your child’s backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10% of their body weight.
- Use proper lifting. Teach your child to bend at the knees to pick up the backpack.
- Wear it properly. Help your child adjust the shoulder, waist, and chest straps as needed, and ensure they never use just one shoulder strap.
If your child needs to carry more than 10% of their body weight, it may be best to use a rolling backpack instead.
Schedule a Chiropractic Appointment in McKinney
At ChiroConcepts of McKinney, Dr. Michael Prochaska provides a range of preventive care and therapeutic treatment options for patients both young and older. Our mission is to help our neighbors throughout the Plano area live life pain-free. As an experienced chiropractor, Dr. Prochaska emphasizes proper biomechanics, soft tissue techniques, and wellness care. Call us today at (972) 369-1471 to schedule an appointment for you or your child.
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