IS YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL BAG DAMAGING THEIR BACK?

According to research by the British Chiropractic Association, a third of parents have reported that their child has suffered from some form of back or neck pain in the past.

Whilst backpain can be caused by a number of factors, unsuitable school bags are widely accepted as a common cause.

Studies have shown that up to 4 million children in the UK are walking with school bags that are too heavy for them and could potentially be harming their spines.  Experts have stated that a child should be able to carry up to 10% of their own bodyweight without causing any damage but a survey by charity BackCare UK highlighted that this is often exceeded, with 11-12 year olds being the highest risk group found to be carrying on average 13% of their body weight (in some cases children were carrying up to 60%!).

Children’s bag specialist, YUU, is supporting the better backs campaign with the release of their new ergonomically designed school backpack. Rachael Withe, marketing manager of YUU; “Any parent would be alarmed to learn of the unseen damage their child’s backpack could be causing.  Going to school brings with it a need to carry certain items and although we don’t always have control over the weight of those items, we do have control over the way in which that weight is carried.  This is exactly why we have designed the new YUUschool according to ergonomic principals so that weight is distributed evenly and symmetrically over the child’s body.”

Paediatric Osteopath Annie Khenian adds “Children’s spines grow and develop rapidly, especially in adolescence, and it’s imperative that correct posture is maintained and care is taken in these formative years to avoid problems later in life.  Many children carry substantial weight to, from and around school on a daily basis. Often the weight of the rucksack pulls children backwards which in turn prompts them to lean forward or arch their backs to keep the weight centred.  Over time this position can compress the spine causing pain and discomfort.  We would always advise parents to invest in a supportive backpack”

For tips on protecting your back see: https://yuuworld.com/yuuworld/backing-better-backs/