Kids Bookbags too heavy? Tips to Prevent Back Pack Pain from Charleston Sports Medicine

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Aug. 24, 2016 - PRLog -- School is back in session!    One week in and many parents are surprised by how heavy their children's book bags already feel.   Back to school shouldn't mean back to tension in the neck, back and shoulders related to book bags.  Dr. Bright McConnell of Charleston Sports Medicine has tips for parents to help their kids prevent back pack pain.

   At least 14,000 children are treated for backpack-related injuries every year according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Parents often think of bone and muscle health during sports. However, the daily, repetitive damage of heavily weighted items worn on one side of the body cause the spine to contract to compensate for the uneven distribution of weight. The spine automatically leans to the other side, increasing pressure. During critical growth development of a child improper weight distribution can also impact posture. Risks include the following:
- Tension of the neck, back, and shoulder muscles
- Scoliosis of the Spine (curvature of the Spine)
- Lower and mid-back pain
- Pelvic tilt
- Asymmetric Gait
- Sore hips
- Knee pain

Some tips for better backpack/computer bag health:

• Purchase back backs or computer bags with multiple compartments to more effectively distribute weight equally of items being carried.
• Use both straps.
• For younger children, consider a backpack with a waist strap to further distribute the weight.
• Pack heavier items closest to the back.
• Choose shoulder bags or backpacks with optimal shoulder and/or back padding.
• Check regularly with your child to make sure they are only bringing home what is necessary and not carrying around unnecessary (lingering) items.
• If possible, keep larger reference books or textbooks at home.
• Make sure your child has enough time between classes to store books not needed in their locker.

 Charleston Sports Medicine, Bright McConnell, III, MD combines traditional orthopedics with cutting-edge techniques in regenerative medicine. Coupling his extensive sports medicine (http://www.charlestonsportsmed.com/services/sports-medici...) experience with the latest minimally invasive treatments, he provides patients a unique scope of options.