Minnesota Chiropractors Encourage Backpack Safety

BLOOMINGTON, Minn., Aug. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Backpacks are a necessary item on all back-to-school lists. As students gear up for back-to-school this fall, Minnesota chiropractors would like to offer parents ways to help children avoid backpack injuries.

Over 79 million students carry a backpack to school each day. While carrying a backpack may seem harmless, it can cause painful back and neck problems for students who don't pack or carry their backpacks properly. These types of childhood injuries can lead to long term health problems.

Safety tips on how to avoid backpack injuries

1.  Wear both shoulder straps evenly to properly distribute backpack weight.
2.  Get the correct size backpack for your child. Do not pack too much weight and follow these guidelines:

Backpack Maximum Weight Chart (for children)
According to the American Physical Therapy Association, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, and the American Chiropractic Association;

* No one should carry more than 25 lbs. in a backpack.

3.   The backpack should not extend below the lower back. Bigger is not better.
4.   Lighten the load and put the heaviest items in the backpack first keeping them close to the body.
5.   Lift the backpack with your legs and place it on one shoulder strap at a time.
6.   Do not leave backpacks on the floor where they can become a tripping hazard.
7.   Choose a quality backpack that has wide well-cushioned shoulder straps with a lumbar support/padding.  In 2010 the American Chiropractic Association began endorsing North Face for their high quality backpacks.
8.  Talk to teachers about reducing the need to bring home textbooks or if at all possible, have an extra set for home use.

If you would like personalized help for your child's backpack and other health needs, please go to the Minnesota Chiropractic Association website at www.mnchiro.com to find an experienced doctor of chiropractic in your community.

About Minnesota Chiropractic Association
Created in 1927, the Minnesota Chiropractic Association is the only professional organization in Minnesota that solely represents the chiropractic professional on a multi-level and integrated service basis.

Contact: Debra Hurston
952-882-9411

SOURCE Minnesota Chiropractic Association