Backpack Safety: Pack Right, Avoid Injury

Each year, I remind my patients to be mindful of the load they or their child is carrying on their back.  Backpack safety has grown to such a level of concern that school districts, hospitals and experts are warning against the potential hazards that can come when carrying too much weight on one's back.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 6,512 emergency room visits each year result from injuries related to book bags, while backpack-related injuries are up 256 percent since 1996.

Last year, backpacksafety.com conducted an online survey of more than 200 chiropractors, and this is what was found:

• 89 percent of chiropractors surveyed responded that they have seen patients (ages 5-18) reporting back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy backpacks.

• 71 percent of chiropractors presently seeing such patients responded that they are currently seeing one to four patients (ages 5-18) reporting back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy backpacks.

• 20 percent of chiropractors presently seeing such patients responded that they are currently seeing five to nine patients (ages 5-18) reporting back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy backpacks.

• 9 percent of chiropractors presently seeing such patients responded that they are currently seeing 10 or more patients (ages 5-18) due to back, neck or shoulder caused by heavy backpacks.

The implications of heavy backpacks are real, and are taking a toll.

Dr. Davis' Tips For Backpack Safety (according to the American Chiropractic Association):

1. Make sure your child's backpack weighs no more than 10% of their body weight.  This will prevent you or your child from slouching forward while carrying their backpack.
2. Backpacks should be worn over both shoulders.
3. Backpacks should be adjustable, positioned square on the back, close to the body, with the bulk of the weight at the waist. 
4. Minimize what is carried in the backpack.
5. Backpacks should have wide shoulder straps to help carry weight effectively.
6. When backpack has a waist strap--use it.
   
   
   Best in health, naturally,
   Dr. Marc
   
   
   
   
   
   
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A Picture Worth A Thousand Words

I thought you would appreciate this.

Best in health, naturally,

Dr. Marc

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Astounding Aspirations of a Young Friend

A patient brought this into our office this week.  Her grandson had created this piece and she knew we had to have it.  Nothing brings a smile like a child appreciating chiropractic care and what it can do for others!

Best in health, naturally,

Dr. Marc

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A Success Story

Dr. Marc and Dixie Caris

By far the best part of my job is seeing patients so thankful because of how much better they are feeling as a result of natural chiropractic care.  Here's one success story that shares how the body heals with chiropractic.

I had an auto accident in June of 2011.  I was broadsided on the driver's side of my body, particularly my upper back and left shoulder.  Due to chiropractic treatment, much of the pain is gone, but I will need ongoing chiropractic treatment due to lingering pain.  My spine and left shoulder get out of alignment easily.  While I needed a can initially, I walk well without a cane.  I still have a great fear of driving, but the chiropractor can't fix that.                                         -Dixie Caris  March 2012

I am thrilled with Dixie's progress.  Simply put, chiropractic works.

Best in health, naturally,
Dr. Marc

Do you have a success story that you would like me to share? Please email me at drmarc@davisfamilychiro.com

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