Dangers Lurking In Your Child's Backpack

Yorkville Chiropractor Offers Backpack Safety Tips

Children carry backpacks so they can keep all of their school books and supplies organized and in one place. While backpacks are designed for convenience, they can expose your children to health hazards you may not be aware of. One of the biggest dangers when it concerns backpacks is putting too much weight in them. It is important for you to teach your child how to properly wear his or her backpack and to only pack what is absolutely necessary.

Pack Carefully

Packing only what you need and putting each item in the appropriate compartment will eliminate the risk of packing things that aren't needed. Carrying more than what is needed leads to clutter and the risk of losing the things that are actually needed.

Wear Correctly

It is important to wear the backpack correctly. This means wearing both straps over the appropriate shoulder and making sure that the backpack hangs evenly down the back. Make sure the weight of the backpack is toward the bottom.

Carry the Right Size

When purchasing a backpack, make sure it is size appropriate for the child. Smaller children should have smaller backpacks to prevent them from trying to carry too much weight. The straps of a backpack can be adjusted so that it fits the child correctly. 

Don't Over-stuff

Don't overstuff the backpack with things that are not needed. Only pack what is absolutely necessary. This will prevent the backpack from becoming too heavy for the child to carry. Overstuffing a backpack can add excessive weight that may eventually strain the child's back.

Visit Our Yorkville Chiropractor

It is also a good idea to have your child evaluated by your Yorkville chiropractor. Dr. Berkey can show your child the proper way to wear their backpack and carry the weight that it contains. Proper lifting techniques will prevent your child from being injured due to not carrying their backpack correctly or from carrying too much weight. Call us today to schedule an appointment!