Backpack Safety

With School starting just aroung the corner, we want to remind you about the importance of BACKPACK SAFETY. Below are helpful tips to insure you know how to safely use your backpack in order to promote spinal health. Step 1: Choose Right.  Choosing the right size backpack is the most important step to safe backpack use. Tip: Bring a friend to help you measure your backpack properly. Step 2: Pack Right.  The maximum weight of the loaded backpack should not exceed 15 % of your body weight, so pack only what is needed. Tip: If the backpack forces the wearer to move forward to carry, it`s overloaded. Step 3: Lift Right.  Face the Pack -Bend at the Knees - Use both hands and check the weight of the pack. - Lift with the legs - Apply one shoulder strap and then the other. Tip: Don`t sling the backpack onto one shoulder. Step 4: Wear Right.  Use both shoulder straps - snug, but not too tight. Tip: When the backpack has a waist strap - use it. BELOW ARE TWO EXAMPLES OF HOW NOT TO WEAR YOUR BACKPACK: WRONG: This backpack is overloaded, creating stress on the spine. Improper backpack use can lead to a lifetime of health problems. WRONG: Wearing a backpack improperly over one shoulder can cause permanent misalignment of the spine, muscle fatigue, and a lowered state of health. Drs. Ed and Sandie are available to do presentations in your child`s classroom about backpack safety. Just ask! Check out this informative website: www.chirolife.com

Dr. Sandie