Does this look familiar? Kids these days are being loaded up with backpacks full of books, laptops and sports gear and their posture is suffering badly. The weight is far too much to be carting around, especially when the straps are too loose and, more often than not, the weight is sitting down near the hips not on the upper back. The result is that the child leans forward to compensate, chin thrust forwards, in a posture that is only reinforced by hours slumped over a computer or looking at a mobile phone.
How can we fix this? There are some very simple steps including limiting the weight, putting heavy items close to the body, adjusting the straps, only carrying the essentials, use a bag on wheels, photograph relevant pages from textbooks and email home rather than carry the whole book. See below for relevant information.
The other perfect way to combat hunched posture is to do physie. The exercises taught at physie strengthen core muscles and create a strong, straight back from a very early age. You can always tell a physie girl from the way she stands and this is because of the training in standing and floor exercises that prepare her for dancing and also for life.
Backpack Strategies for Parents and Students from the American Occupational Therapy Association Inc.
Pack It Light, Wear It Right
Aching back and shoulders
Weakened muscles |
Tingling arms
Stooped posture |
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Does your child have these symptoms after wearing a heavy school backpack? Carrying too much weight in a pack or wearing it the wrong way can lead to pain and strain.
Parents can take steps to help children load and wear backpacks the right way to avoid health problems. |
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Loading a pack:
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Wearing a pack:
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