Q: What do you call a boomerang that doesn’t come back?
A: A Stick
Q:Why was the math book sad?
A: It had too many problems
Q: What did the fork say to the knife?
A: You’re looking sharp!
Share your experience!
Many people are curious about chiropractic care and I’d love to grow my reviews online.
Do you have a story to tell about your experience at Lone Star Chiropractic?
Below is the link to google and yelp, but you can also write a testimonial or post on facebook. I appreciate all of you, thank you
Dear Susan,
Time for my annual backpack safety edition!
It’s hot outside, here is a picture of someone shoveling snow to remind us all why we suffer the heat!
If you prefer not to receive my email newsletter, there is an unsubscribe link at the bottom of the email. I never want to send spam!
Webinar
It’s backpack safety awareness time! My next webinar on August 19th will cover everything backpacks
Join me online for a 30 minute webinar focusing on backpack safety. Learn the latest research, how to properly fit a backpack, plus stretches to improve posture and counteract the effects of wearing a backpack.
It’s back to school time! Every year parents ask me about backpacks. There are so many styles and options it can difficult to chose the right one for your child.
An ill-fitting pack can lead to poor posture and back pain. We normally do not think of children suffering from aches and pains, so when your child hurts like an adult it is alarming.
What was reported as the the first upright MRI study to research typical school backpack loads in children found the following results.*
Typical school backpack loads significantly compressed lumbar disc heights in children.
Typical school backpack loads significantly increased lumbar asymmetry.
Children reported significant increases in back pain associated with backpack loads.
While this research has limitations, it is an interesting look into what happens to the spine when carrying a backpack. Other studies have shown that of children who reported back pain, 34% limited their activity due to the pain, 14% use medication for pain relief, and 82% believed their backpacks either caused or worsened their pain.
Keys for preschool: The pack should be light and easy to handle. Usually children in this group only carry a few things. Think of what your child actually needs everyday, this way they are not overloaded with too many items.
Keys for elementary school: In this age group they are starting to carry small books and loose papers, along with lunch and perhaps after school items. Ideally, you want something with pockets and dividers, and a separate section for smaller items….and washable!
Keys for junior high and high school: Now is the time for a sturdy pack! For this group, it is most important to follow the guidelines below.
When choosing a backpack, look for:
Nice wide padded shoulder straps and a padded back
Lumbar support
A waist belt
Multiple compartments
Lightweight
How to load your backpack:
Loaded backpacks should weigh no more than 10%-15% of the child’s body weight
Distribute the weight properly; load heavier items closest to the back
How to wear your backpack:
Wear both shoulder straps. Wearing only one strap makes you twist your back and causes abnormal shoulder height.
Tighten straps until snug, but not tight
Use the stabilizing waist strap
Take the backpack off when standing for a long time
Take only what is necessary and avoid packing it with extras they don’t need. Remember, you can do everything else perfectly, but if their pack is 50% of their body weight it’s still going to be a problem.
Warning signs:
You notice your child is leaning forward at the neck or waist
Struggling to carry pack, or needing to take breaks
Upper back pain or headaches
Numbness in hands or shoulders when carrying the backpack.
Rolling packs are also a great option, just make sure the handle is long enough that your child isn’t bent backwards or stooping when walking with the pack.
Questions? Just ask! You are always welcome to stop in the office if you would like help adjusting a backpack to fit your child.
*Spine. 2010;35(1):83-88.
Thank you for reading. If you have questions or a topic you would like to me to address, just ask!