Backpack Injury
40 million teenagers carry a backpack to school each day. 60% of children will experience back pain by the time they reach 18 . Research shows that 55% of students carry more than the recommended guidelines. 71% of the American Academy of Orthopedics felt that backpacks are a clinical problem.
While carrying a backpack to school every morning may seem harmless enough, it can cause painful back and neck problems and injuries for students who don't pack or carry their backpacks properly. It can also lead to long-term medical problems. In fact, more and more doctors are seeing children for back pain and injuries
Medical professionals advise that individuals carry no more than 10-15% of their body weight on their backs.
Example: A child weighing:
• 50 lbs. should carry no more than 7.5 lbs.
• 80 lbs. should carry no more than 12 lbs.
• 100 lbs. should carry no more than 15 lbs.
• 130 lbs. should carry no more than 19.5 lbs.
• 150 lbs. should carry no more than 22.5 lbs.
Studies continue to show that heavy backpacks are a threat to spinal development such as scoliosis and other permanent physical problems.
Tips On Wearing Your Backpack Safely and Properly
• Distribute the weight evenly. Put the heavier items on the bottom to keep the weight off of your shoulders and maintain better posture.
• Wear both shoulder straps unless your pack is designed for use on one shoulder. Carrying a heavy backpack using one strap can shift the weight to one side, which can lead to neck and muscles spasms, low back pain and walking improperly.
• Choose backpacks that have heavily padded shoulder straps and a lumbar support. Non-padded straps dig into the shoulders causing pain due to compressional loading of the acromio-clavicular joints and stress on the trapezius muscles.
• Choose a backpack that has a lumbar cushion. The lumbar cushion will redistribute weight to the lower extremities, creating a fulcrum that facilitates an upright standing position.
• Lift it right. Bend your knees when picking up a heavy backpack.
• Carry only what is needed. Every extra item adds weight!
Ask your chiropractor about the Airpack Backpack because today's heavy loads are causing injuries that last a lifetime.
