Backpack Safety Loveland Chiropractor

School is fast approaching already! It’s time to talk about backpack safety. The National Safety Council and the American Chiropractic Association recommend that backpacks weigh no more than 5 to 10% of a child’s weight. This means if your child weighs 50 lbs the backpack should be only 3– 5 lbs. If your child is 100 lbs the backpack should be just 5-10 lbs. In some cases these guidelines cannot be followed because of the amount of books and binders a child needs throughout the day, in which case storing books in a locker or a classroom may be required in order to lighten the load.

A backpack should never hang more than 4 inches below the waist, and support straps should be used as much as possible. Any compression straps that hug the body help to “normalize” the weight is beneficial. These straps make the weight more like added body weight, which helps distribute the weight better through the spine.

If your child has experienced any back pain due to backpack usage please don’t hesitate to call us. We can often minimize pain even while a stress on the spine like a heavy backpack is in use. Bring your child’s backpack with you so we can make sure it fits properly and the straps are adjusted appropriately too.

Kauffman Chiropractic is your source for health and wellness. If you have been searching for a licensed chiropractor near Loveland Ohio, Mason Ohio, Madeira Ohio, or the greater Cincinnati area you have come to the right place. Please call our Loveland Ohio Chiropractic office at (513) 444-4529 for your appointment.