Going Safely Back To School
23 January 2020
Going Safely Back to School
Kids think it’s “cool” to strap on their backpacks and head out to school. But if they don’t know exactly how to choose, load, lift and wear them, these important accessories can be a pain in the back. Literally. Not to mention the neck, head and shoulders.
Backpacks can affect your children’s health
Carrying a heavy load that is unevenly distributed can result in poor posture; and even
distort the spinal column, throwing it out of alignment. This may cause Muscle Strain;
Headaches; Back Pain;
Neck and Shoulder Pain; Arm Pain; or even Nerve Damage. For example, a heavy backpack, carried on one shoulder, forces the muscles and spine to compensate for the uneven weight. This places stress on the mid and lower back, and may increase the likelihood of back problems later in life.
Prevention is the key
Here are a few pointers to help you help your school age children carry their load comfortably and safely.
Choose the right backpack
- Don’t choose leather as it is far too heavy.
- Go for vinyl or canvas instead.
- Choose a bag that has two wide, adjustable, padded shoulder straps
- The bag must also have a hip or waist strap.
- For most comfort, choose a bag with padded back.
- For even weight distribution, aim for a bag with plenty of pockets.
- Make sure the bag fits properly, is not too tight around the arms and under armpits, and that its size is proportionate to the wearer’s body.
Packing it properly
Your kids are not moving out, so make sure your children’s bag contains only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distributed evenly. It’s a good idea to know roughly what each item weighs. The total weight of the filled bag should be no more than 10 to 15 per cent of the wearer’s own body weight. Pack heaviest objects close to the body and place bumpy or odd shaped ones on
the outside, away from the back.
Putting the backpack on
It’s a good idea to help young children with this, at least the first few times.
1. Put the pack on a flat surface, at waist height.
2. Slip on the pack, one shoulder at a time.
3. Then adjust the straps to fit comfortably.
Remember when lifting a backpack, or
anything, to lift using the arms and legs and to bend at the knees.
The right way to wear a backpack
Both shoulder straps should be used, and adjusted, so that the pack fits snugly to the body, without dangling to the side. Backpacks should never be worn over just one shoulder. You should be able to slide your hand between the backpack and your child’s back. The waist strap should also be worn for added stability.
More than 50% of children experience at least one episode of lower back pain by their teenage years.
Research indicates that this could be caused by improper use of backpacks. Together we can bring this number down!
How can we help your child
If your child complains of back pain, numbness or weakness in his or her arms and legs, we encourage you to seek out professional healthcare. Our Brisbane chiropractor works with people of all ages, including children; contact us to book an appointment on 07 3726 0176.
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Back pain is one of the most common health complaints among adults, affecting posture, mobility, and overall quality of life. Whether it’s a dull ache after sitting too long or sharp discomfort from a pinched nerve, back pain can interfere with even the simplest tasks. At Equilibrium, we believe in a holistic, targeted approach to healing — helping you get back to what matters most, pain-free. If you're in Brisbane and struggling with lower back issues, you're not alone — and you're not without options. From chiropractic care to pain specialists, this guide will walk you through the most effective and reliable treatments available today. Understanding the Causes of Lower Back Pain Back pain, especially in the lower region, can be caused by a variety of factors: Muscle strain or ligament sprain Herniated or slipped discs Sciatica or pinched nerves Poor posture and ergonomics Sedentary lifestyle or overuse Underlying conditions like arthritis It’s essential to first identify the root cause of your discomfort. For a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, consulting a lower back specialist in Brisbane is the best place to start. Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Lower Back Pain? Chiropractic treatment offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing and healing back pain. A qualified lower back pain chiropractor can assess your spinal alignment and apply techniques to reduce pressure, inflammation, and nerve irritation. Benefits of Chiropractic for Lower Back Pain: Realignment of the spine Improved mobility and range of motion Relief from nerve-related pain Reduced dependency on painkillers Preventive care for long-term wellness Many patients report significant improvements after just a few sessions with a trusted back adjustment chiropractor. Treatment for Pinched Nerve in Lower Back One of the more painful causes of back discomfort is a pinched nerve. This occurs when too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues — such as bones, cartilage, or muscles. At Equilibrium, we offer personalized treatment for pinched nerves in the lower back, combining gentle chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and ergonomic recommendations to relieve pain and promote healing. If you’re experiencing symptoms like radiating pain, numbness, or tingling down the legs, don’t ignore it — seek early intervention from our pain specialists in Brisbane to prevent long-term damage. What to Expect from Your First Chiropractic Visit If you’re new to chiropractic care, here’s what a typical session at Equilibrium may include: Initial Consultation & Assessment: We take a detailed history and examine your posture, spine, and movement. Diagnosis: We identify the specific source of pain and misalignment. Chiropractic Adjustment: Using safe, precise techniques, your chiropractor will make small movements to restore alignment. Therapy & Rehab: Depending on your condition, we may recommend stretching, strengthening exercises, or ergonomic adjustments. Follow-up Care : Ongoing care is crucial to maintain results and avoid future flare-ups. Back Pain Treatment Options in Brisbane : Our team works closely with pain specialists in Brisbane to ensure a coordinated approach to your recovery. Why Equilibrium? At Equilibrium, we’re more than just a clinic — we’re your dedicated wellness partner. Led by Dr. Kashmiri , a trusted chiropractor for lower back pain in Brisbane, we provide evidence-based, patient-centric care in a warm and professional environment. With state-of-the-art facilities and a personalised approach, your journey toward lasting pain relief is both smooth and effective. When Should You See a Chiropractor? If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to book an appointment: Persistent lower back pain for more than a week Sharp or shooting pain down your leg Limited range of motion Difficulty standing or walking Pain that worsens with movement Early treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes. Take the First Step Toward Relief You don’t have to live with back pain. Whether you need a lower back specialist in Brisbane, a comprehensive back pain treatment plan, or a trusted chiropractor for back adjustments , Equilibrium is here to help. Reach out today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a pain-free, active life.
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