Pack it Light, Wear it Right 

From kindergartners to college seniors,  students carry backpacks. Studies show that more than 50 percent of these backpacks are overly heavy and pose a serious risk to the students’ well being. According to the Canadian Chiropractic Assocaition, young children are suffering from back pain much earlier than previous generations, and weighty backpacks are a key factor. The British Columbia Association believes that this is a key health issue that needs to be addressed. Along with back pain, students can suffer with headaches, posture or spinal problems.

How to load a pack

* Pack’s weight should not exceed 15 percent of child’s weight.

 * Load heaviest items at the back of pack, closest to child’s back.

* Hand carry some items, or use a backpack on wheels if backpack is too heavy.

 How to wear a pack

* Use both shoulder straps to avoid curving spine, causing pain.

* Adjust straps so pack fits snugly.

* Wear waist belt, if pack has one, to distribute weight more evenly.

* Bottom should not rest more than 4 inches below waistline.

During the month of September concerned parents may call our office to have their child’s backpack checked and have a complimentary scoliosis screening (lateral curvature of the vertebral column). Call Dr. Ali Akhavan at 604-990-6676.

For more information, click here reagarding backpack safety.