Backpack Safety for your Children

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dr. Brent Moyer
Phone: 905.637.6100
Fax: 905.637.6104
Email: brantchiro@gmail.com
www.drbrentmoyer.com

 MAYOR PROCLAIMS BURLINGTON BACKPACK SAFETY MONTH

 BURLINGTON, ON. September 7, 2012- With the children already back to school Brant Arts Chiropractic and Mayor Rick Goldring are declaring September Burlington Backpack Safety Month. This coincides with several other organizations throughout North America as well as the Ontario Chiropractic Association.

“Many parents do not realize the negative effects of carrying a heavy load or wearing a backpack improperly, can have on a young and growing spine.” stated Dr. Moyer.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission there were more than 21,000 backpack-related injuries treated at hospital emergency rooms, doctors' offices, and clinics. Injuries ranged from contusions, to sprains and strains to the back and shoulder, and even fractures.

Back pain in children is not uncommon.  When you combine improper fitting and loading of a backpack, athletic injuries and poor posture in the classroom, this can cause a child to have back, neck or shoulder pain. The Ontario Chiropractic Association states that more than 50% of young people will experience at least one episode of low back pain over their teenage years. Research states that this could be caused, to a great extent, by improper use of backpacks.

Research suggests that a child should carry no more than 10%-15% of their body weight depending upon the strength and fitness of the child. In other words, a 70 lbs. child should carry a backpack of no more than 7 pounds. Heavier objects should be put closer to the body in the backpack.

“Carrying a backpack on one shoulder forces the muscles and spine to compensate for the uneven load, causing stress on the mid and lower back. This could lead to abnormal curvatures of the spine and problems in the future.” stated Dr. Moyer.

Selecting a backpack that fits your child is critical. Choose a light material such as vinyl or canvas, not leather. Find a backpack that has shoulder straps that are cushioned and wide to displace the load. Adjust the straps to fit the child and lessen the load on the spine. A backpack should not extend beyond the lower back of a child and it should fit snugly. If there is a waist strap and chest strap, encourage your child to use it routinely.

Indications that the backpack is too heavy would be a change in posture to manage the weight, numbness or tingling in the neck, arms or hands, straps leaving red marks on the shoulders or discomfort or pain when wearing the backpack.

“Pack it Light Wear it Right” is a public education campaign of the Ontario Chiropractic Association and the Chiropractic profession. More information can be found on the OCA website www.chiropractic.on.ca.

As a public service our office, offers workshops for parents and children to evaluate their backpack safety and create awareness. We offer workshops in house or arrangements can be made to come to your school.

Dr. Brent Moyer operates Brant Arts Chiropractic and is located at 672 Brant St. Suite 201 in Burlington. www.drbrentmoyer.com