Backpacks and Your Child’s Spine Health in West Des Moines IA

Children in West Des Moines IA are often seen jumping off school buses or riding bikes home with heavy backpacks on their backs. It is an everyday scene and we don’t think much of it. However, hauling a heavy backpack or carrying it over one shoulder can worsen pre-existing postural deformities or spinal misalignments.

The unevenly distributed weight, coupled with a heavy load and repetition, can put a lot of stress on a still-growing spine.

Safety Instructions in West Des Moines IA

If your son or daughter find themselves lugging heavy backpacks back and forth from school, consider these safety suggestions:

1. Make sure the backpack is sturdy and appropriately sized. Special child-sized versions are lighter and have shorter back lengths and widths that reduce shifting.
2. Look for padded shoulder straps to avoid nerve pressure around the armpits and shoulders. Select backpacks with waist straps and make sure they're used.
3. The maximum weight of loaded backpacks should not exceed 15% of the child's body weight. If the backpack forces the child to lean forward, it's too heavy.

If you’re still concerned about the impact your child’s backpack can have on their spine, bring your child in with their fully loaded backpack. We're happy to provide an evaluation and offer suggestions for reducing spinal stress.

We love the opportunity to help prevent some of the often difficult-to-correct problems we see in adults!

Vero Health Center : Best Local Chiropractor, Des Moines and Central Iowa

At Vero Health Center, we focus on neurologically-based chiropractic care. We administer the best and most specific type of chiropractic care, addressing the master control system of the body. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology to pinpoint and locate the root cause of your health concerns. The next step for you and your family is to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with our office, so we can better understand your unique needs. Click here or call (515) 422-9552 to book your no obligation appointment TODAY!