Backpack safety

This is week three of our series about upper back pain and with back to school we will talk about backpack safety. But first here are the links to the previous two weeks blog incase you missed them:

Upper Back Pain

Upper back pain stretch

 This week since the kids in the GTA go back to school on Wednesday I thought I would talk about backpack safety.  Backpack safety is important for not only upper back pain but all back pain and joint health.  This is particularly important for our kiddos but as well for everyone who uses a backpack – I still do!  Damage to joints and the cause of pain and long-term problems are cumulative so everything you can do for your kids, and you help.  This includes regular adjustments and of course ergonomics and backpack safety – which is just really proper or best ergonomics to use while wearing a backpack.

Backpack safety tips

Ok so I am going to do this in point form because it is probably easier that way. Here are the tips I have for protecting yourself from upper back pain and all joint damage while wearing a backpack.

• Choose a well-made backpack including wide straps and a padded back
• Choose a lightweight backpack
• Do not overpack – the weight of your pack should not be more than 10% of body weight
• In order not to overpack take just what you need for the day
• Keep the load as close to the back of the pack as possible (not in only the front pouches)
• Wear both straps at the same time not just one
• Use the waist strap if there is one to support some of the weight
• Get in the habit of placing your pack on the table and turning around to put on both straps instead of slinging over your shoulder

Here is where you can get more information on backpack saftey

So those are our tips for this week – for more please see the links included below from the Ontario and Canadian Chiropractic associations regarding backpack safety!

Pack it Light, Wear it Right: Backpack Safety101

The ultimate guide to backpacks (what to look for and how to wear them properly)

Please share this newsletter with anyone you think it may be helpful for!  Here is the link to the blog post to make it easy to access: (ADD URL)

Good luck to all the kiddos going back to school and parents and educators too!