Back Pain in School Kids
27/02/2018
Limp in Leap out Physiotherapy & Wellness in Belfield provides servicing to many near by Inner West suburbs including Belmore, Strathfield and Croydon park. See our weekly blog below if you are interested in new research, facts, general information or ideas.
With kids well and truly back to school and university students are on their way, we at Limp in Leap out Physiotherapy in Belfield are having a massive influx of back pain conditions.
Does your back pack look like the size of a truck tire? Does it weigh more then you? … You are not alone. The number of books, stationary and other gear that’s thrown into bags for school and extracurricular activities is unbelievable. As such, we are seeing more neck and lower back pain. Typical conditions that are associated with wearing heavy bags include:
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Neck pain
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Lower back pain
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Shoulder pain
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Previous injuries that are exacerbated
A study in 2017 investigated the effect of bag weight on back pain in school students. The results were as follows:
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33% of students complained of pain in the spine
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70% of these students complained of pain in the neck, shoulder or mild thoracic region
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The model which was developed showed an increased risk of back pain with every 1% increase in bag weight to body weight ratio.
These results are substantial, especially for those students who don’t own a locker, catch a bus or train to and from school, and contain the contents of half a mini bus within their bag.
A few important tips for preventing back pain in school students include:
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If possible use the available lockers
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Wear your bag across both shoulders
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Minimise the load and where possible, carry a small bag with some gear to avoid extra load on the back
This finding and information can be used to gain a better understanding why school students are experiencing back pain. To find out more about how we can help improve your child's back, neck or shoulder pain, or to book in for a consultation you can contact us via our Limp in Leap out Physiotherapy & Wellness contact us page, or book online here.
Reference: On Request.
