Rockville Chiropractor Discusses Proper Backpacks
We have all heard before that backpacks can cause chronic pain and back issues. People of all ages widely utilize backpacks, and whether you are a child in school, a college student, or an adult, backpacks are a convenient way of carting your things around. Unfortunately, improper use and weighing backpacks down can cause physical issues. No person wants to deal with misalignments and pain that could have otherwise been prevented. Pain & Arthritis Relief Center can offer recommendations for adjustments made when wearing a backpack to reduce the risk of physical pain a Rockville Chiropractor Discusses Proper Backpacks. While there are specific types of backpacks that can reduce strain, back, neck, and shoulder issues may be treated with treatment from a chiropractor. Professionals will be able to realign the spine and make recommendations to mitigate pain and prevent further problems.
Physical Issues Caused by Backpacks
While backpacks are convenient, they can cause a multitude of physical issues. Over the years, children’s backpacks have only gotten heavier, which can cause long-lasting effects causing spinal problems, poor posture, and more. The following are several physical issues that can result from overloaded backpacks and improper use:
- Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Headaches
- Poor Posture
- Misaligned Spine
The American Chiropractic Association recommends that a child carry a backpack that weighs no more than 10-15% of their total weight. It should come as no surprise that more than half of all children carry backpacks heavier than recommended. The heavier the backpack, the greater the physical problem that may be faced down the road. Wearing a backpack properly and choosing the right type of backpack can prevent issues before they even start.
Backpack Recommendations to Relief Strain and Prevent Pain
Improper wear of backpacks is ordinary, but some solutions can allow people to continue using a backpack without the physical problems it may cause. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) has made several recommendations for children to reduce back pain caused by backpack use. However, keep in mind that many of these recommendations can apply to adults as well. While many may not realize an issue, after being assessed by a chiropractor and reviewing your lifestyle, your chiropractor might determine that your backpack or handbag is exacerbating the problem, causing further pain, impacting the neck, back, and shoulders. The impact can be substantial as pain can make daily function difficult. The following are things to keep in mind when choosing a backpack and ways of wearing it that help to alleviate pain and prevent further issues:
- Choose a backpack made from a material that doesn’t weigh too much
- Make sure that the straps of the backpack are padded and wide to prevent neck and shoulder injuries
- A backpack that allows weight to be equally distributed
- Avoid choosing a larger size backpack as it will be tempting to weigh it down more than it should
- Avoid wearing the backpack on one shoulder
- Make sure that your backpack is appropriately adjusted and doesn’t hang too low
- Be aware that if you tip forward when carrying a backpack that it is far too heavy, and you should remove items to reduce the weight
Pain & Arthritis Relief Center is genuinely committed to your overall health and well being. In addition to treatment, our practitioners offer education and recommendations for lifestyle changes to provide patients with the skills they need to achieve optimal health. To start living your best life, contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
