3 Tips To Avoid Back to School Back Pain

Back to school can be an overwhelming time for kids and for parents. You might be excited to have your kids out of the house and get back into a more fixed routine; While your kids might be sad that summer is ending and they are back in a fixed routine.

You are likely focusing a lot of time and money on school supplies, however, if you don't approach the school year properly your kids might come home every day complaining of aches and pains among other things. Here are my top three tips that I recommend for back to school:

1. Get the right backpack

Obviously any backpack will put somewhat of a strain on the spine. Over 1/3 of students end up carrying more than 30% of their body weight in their backpacks. Most backpack pain is caused by excessive weight in the pack, inappropriate fit, and improper wear of the back pack.

If your child's backpack is too heavy the weight can essentially pull them backward. In order to compensate, your child might bend forward at the hips or arch the back. This causes the spine to compress unnaturally. It is very important that your child wear both straps of the backpack at all times, and that they carry some of their books in their hand for even weight distribution!

When shopping for a backpack or your child, I recommend a backpack with:

• wide, padded shoulder straps
• a padded back
• a waist belt
• and multiple compartments.

Messenger bags, or rolling backpacks are a good alternative. If a backpack is used correctly, your child's back and abdomen will support the bulk of its weight

2. Keep your kids heathy

Going back to school almost always involves getting sick. There are many things you can do to give your child a better chance to adapt to the stresses placed upon their immune system.

• Keep them away from sugary foods
• Keep them hydrated with water as opposed to juice or soft drinks
• Give them a daily probiotic to boost their immune system. If you don't have a probiotic ask us for a recommendation during your next visit!

3. Get Regular Chiropractic Adjustments

Last, but surely not least, get your kids in for regular chiropractic adjustments. Just because they feel fine doesn't mean their spine is properly aligned. If you want their body to be functioning at its best, regular adjustments are a must! So make an appointment ASAP.