Congratulations to all the children returning to the 2021-2022 school year!
During the school year we see an increased number of children and adolescents with complaints of back pain. This affects their daily activities, their ability to concentrate in school and can also result in not being able to partake in sporting activities.
What causes the increase in back pain in children and teenagers? The answer is twofold.
I. The first reason is the backpack weight in comparison to the body mass index, age, and gender. Carrying heavy school backpacks have been associated with back pain and increases the risks of developing back pathology in adult life.
II. Prolonged sitting and decreased activities with sedentary lifestyle. In the USA, about 20% of children and adolescents are considered overweight and obese.
Heavy backpack increase neck, shoulders, and low back muscular conditions. Clinical studies indicate avoiding lifting more than 10% of their body weight.
At PhysicalOne, we also instruct our young clients to try and carry the backpack in the front, on both shoulders. That will reduce increased low back arch, compression, and postural misalignment.
It is imperative to perform stretching exercises and reduce sedentary lifestyle, maintain healthy weight and proper nutrition.
