Backpack Safety

The back-to-school season in Odessa, TX, is filled with excited children showing off their brand-new backpacks. As an adult, you might also use a backpack to carry your laptop and other essentials to work or during a hike. While backpacks are one of the most versatile accessories you can carry, they can lead to serious pain in your back, shoulders, and neck. At Clark Chiropractic Clinic, our team wants to share a few backpack safety tips to help you avoid the effects of back strain.

Use Both Shoulder Straps

Throwing only one strap over your shoulder might seem easy and even look cool, but this is one of the primary reasons people visit our chiropractors for shoulder and mid-back pain. The straps on your backpack are designed to distribute the weight evenly across both sides of your back and shoulders. Putting all the weight on one side could cause you to need a chiropractic adjustment.

Have a Chiropractor Near You Check Your Posture

Poor posture combined with a heavy backpack can lead to middle back pain and shoulder strain. If you or your child regularly carries a heavy backpack, consider bringing it to our office. During your chiropractic care appointment, we can assess your posture and ensure the backpack fits well. Sometimes, adjusting the straps or straightening your spine while standing are the changes needed to relieve pain.

Encourage Children to Report Any Back Pain

Back pain treatment is most effective when started early. As an adult, you may know to visit a chiropractor at the first sign of pain. However, children might just assume that feeling pain while carrying their sports gear is normal. Make sure each family member knows to report any pain they feel during or after wearing their backpack, especially if it occurs in their middle back. This helps us determine if a chiropractic adjustment will help prevent future injuries and pain.

Seek Chiropractic Care for Greater Back Pain Relief

At Clark Chiropractic Clinic in Odessa, TX, we often see an increase in patients reporting pain from using their backpacks for school and summer activities. We encourage you to visit our chiropractors for back pain treatment and advice to help you use your favorite accessory safely.