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Take the Pain out of Going Back to School
In
an August 3, 2006 release by the Ontario Chiropractic Association carried
by the CNW Group, the chiropractors of Ontario are offering safety
reminders to children who are returning to school after a summer break.
These reminders relate to carefully selecting and using backpacks for
children.
Dr. Bryan Wolfe,
President of the Ontario Chiropractic Association (OCA) starts off by
saying, "Excessive or unevenly distributed weight in a backpack can put
strain on a child's growing spine, which can lead to serious back pain,
changes in posture and gait, and potential irritation and injury of the
spine, joints and muscles."
The OCA has initiated a public education program called, "Pack It Light. Wear It Right."
The purpose of this campaign is to try to avoid problems caused by heavy,
or improper backpacks. To accomplish this the OCA is providing
things such as posters, information and activity literature, and a video
that shows the proper way to pack, lift, carry, and even choose a
backpack.
Dr. Kristina Peterson,
chair of the OCA's External Relations Committee added, "Following a few
simple guidelines can make a world of difference for your child's spinal
health." They also provided a list of recommendations in the article
to help educate people on this issue. Some of these recommendations
include:
- Choose a backpack
that is proportionate to body size and not larger than needed.
- Select a backpack
made of lightweight material.
- The shoulder straps
should be at least two inches wide, adjustable, and padded.
- A backpack should
have a padded back for added protection and comfort.
- Evenly distribute
contents and pack the heaviest items closest to the body.
- Explore other
backpack options such as a backpack with wheels and pull handles.
- Backpacks should
never exceed 15 per cent of a secondary school child's body weight or 10
per cent of an elementary school child's body weight.
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