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The short answer is yes, according to Jimboomba chiropractor Paul Mellish.
“Research by Skaggs et al 2006 showed that of 1540 children 37 per cent of 11 to 14 years olds (570) reported back pain and 14 per cent used painkillers because of it,” Mr Mellish said.
Other research connects back packs to aggravation of existing postural faults.
Ask if your children have back pain – you may be surprised to find that they do.
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Pain repeating in the one area is more significant of underlying fault. If they report this, get them checked.
Part of solving children’s pain is to get the best bag for the situation.
Five minutes is a long time for muscles to hold a load.
A bad pack fatigues and may overload your child before the day even begins.
It is more than possible that discomfort from this source may impact on a child’s ability to concentrate in class and increase exposure to headaches and back pain.
Long term effects have not been determined but are likely in worst case scenarios.
What can I do?
- Ask about back pain
- Time how long a back pack is carried – If it is more than five minutes or child already has symptoms – see point 3
- Get some wheels on the bag like an aircraft carry on.
- If the bag is carried a long way and there is rough ground – best option is hikers pack with wheels
“It is unfortunate that the wheeled options and true hikers pack are more expensive, but I believe it is money well spent,” Mr Mellish said.
