Children and back problems

Today, young children are prone to back problems, just like adults. Just look at a group of children on their way to school to understand why: the huge bulky backpacks hanging from their shoulders are a concern of major importance. Other problems come from the posture of the child while he is sitting at his desk or in front of his computer or that he plays with a video game.

Backpacks

The weight of backpacks, and similar objects, and how that weight is distributed over the shoulders, can play a role in the damage inflicted on the back muscles. Whether it's books, a musical instrument or a hockey bag, the weight can misaligned the spine if not worn properly. Back injuries in children can affect their health, growth and well-being. Back problems that are not detected early, will not correct and will be still present in adulthood.

Some tips on choosing a backpack

A good start would be to report to you, and bring your child to realize that a bag may be too big or too heavy. Regularly ask your child if the bag does not cause discomfort and look for signs of discomfort and fatigue in case your child tries to hold on despite everything. If there is a problem, your doctor can help you find the right treatment.

To maintain the health of the spine of your children, look for the following when you purchase a backpack:

•     Adjustable padded straps and a width of at least 5 cm (2 inches);
•     a lightweight material (canvas is a good choice);
•     a hip strap;
•     several compartments to put objects of different sizes;
•     wheels that improve the handling of the bag to the shoot.

Encourage your children to not bring home the daily necessaries. They should be the objects they need that day - they should not use their backpacks as a record for any store! Thorough cleaning from time to time the backpack will also help alleviate it.

Video games, computers and posture

Many children spend a lot of time in front of computer screens or television. Because they spend an average of 8 hours per day staring at a screen, they run the risk of several problems, including:

•     back injuries caused by poor posture;
•     of obesity due to lack of exercise;
•     from eyestrain;
•     stress injuries due to repetitive movements (often associated with carpal tunnel syndrome).

Poor posture is a factor of major importance when young children play video games or they do their homework on the computer. Be sure to give them a good chair is well adapted to their size. But also check that the child sits comfortably and his posture is appropriate. Good posture means sitting:

•     chin is parallel to the floor;
•     the ears are aligned with the shoulders;
•     the feet touch the floor comfortably - if this is not the case, use a stool or adjust the height of his chair;
•     the lower back is against the back of his chair.

Teach early the importance of good posture for your children and help them be aware of how they sit, even in your absence. By sitting properly in school and at home to do their homework, they spare their long-term health and they avoid injuries that might occur.