Mark Jones a local Chiropractor at Well Adjusted Health is urging parents to think about their children’s posture.

According to new research from the British Chiropractic Association, over a third (33%) of parents say that their child has suffered from back or neck pain in the past and, whilst back pain can be caused by a number of different factors, overloaded school bags are a common trigger.

Despite most people knowing that a rucksack is the best type of bag to use to promote a more healthy posture, nearly a third (31%) of children carry a one-strapped bag that can cause a number of problems due to the weight being loaded to just one shoulder.

When parents were questioned about what their children usually carry in their school bags, the most common items included books (87%), lunchbox (59%), sports gear, including trainers (43%) and mobile phones (32%). Collectively, these items can become a heavy weight and, if carried incorrectly, that weight can cause aches and pains. With 16% of parents admitting to never checking their child’s school bag, Mark is calling for more parents to keep an eye on what their children carry around with them on a daily basis.

Mark, who is a member of the British Chiropractic Association also comments: “Making sure your child doesn’t suffer from back or neck pain this autumn term can be as simple as checking they aren’t carrying around heavy items with them unnecessarily and that they carry their school bag correctly.

“I see an increasing number of young people complaining of back or neck pain and often it’s due to the weighty bags they carry. As youngsters have more belongings than ever before, like mobile phones and tablets, there’s a tendency for them to overfill their bags but, by doing these two basic things, you could be helping them avoid painful back problems”.

TOP TIPS:

• Keep it light – make sure your child is not carrying any unnecessary excess weight.
• Check it out – make sure you know what your child is taking to school with them every day as they may be carrying heavy items with them unnecessarily.
• Choose the right bag – a rucksack is the best option as long as it is carried over both shoulders and the straps are adjusted so that the bag is held close to the back and weight is evenly distributed. If your child has a one-strapped bag, make sure they carry it across the body and alternate which shoulder they carry it on.
• Footwear is key – Make sure your child has good footwear; soft-soled shoes that are supportive and have a good grip will make it easier for the child to carry a school bag.

To watch a video of the exercises your child can do, please visit: www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk/straightenup or contact us for a leaflet.

If you have a specific question regarding any pain or problem areas, or would like to book a Free Back Check for your or your child please call Well Adjusted Health on 01903 892171