Released on: September 30, 2008, 12:28 pm

Press Release Author: Heritage Health

Industry: Healthcare

Press Release Summary: Poor posture, long-term muscle and joint damage caused by
heavy backpacks

Press Release Body: Centennial, CO — Backpack injuries are on the rise and,
according to health practitioners at Heritage Health, a lot can be done about it. In
fact, nearly 7,000 children are injured each year due to heavy loads in their
backpacks.

Chiropractor Paul Marmalick with Heritage Health tells parents that “many backpack
injuries result either from kid’s backpacks being too heavy or wearing the backpacks
incorrectly.” There are specific steps you can take to prevent backpack injury. “The
biggest thing you can do to help your kids”, Marmalick suggests, “is to weigh your
child and their backpack. Backpacks should be no more than 10 – 15 percent of their
body weight.”

Backpacks should be worn with the straps tightened – enough for the backpack to fit
closely to the body and be about 2 inches above the waist. Marmalick says that, “The
pack should rest in the curve of the lower back, never more than 4 inches below the
waistline.”

Marmalick tells us that frequent stretching, strengthening certain muscle groups,
and teaching children proper lifting techniques will help prevent injury and poor
posture. If your child complains of back, shoulder, or neck pain, has red marks on
their shoulders, leans forward to carry their backpack, or complains of back pain,
numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs, you should consult a chiropractor or
physical therapist immediately.


About Heritage Health
Heritage Health, based in Centennial, Colo., is a full-service healthcare facility
specializing in the prevention and treatment of both workplace and day-to-day
injury. Our unique multi-disciplinary practice consists of chiropractic care,
physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy. We also publish a healthcare
blog, www.HeritageHealth.net/blog which provides information on non-invasive ways to
prevent injury and live to your fullest potential. For more information contact us
at 303-694-1245 or visit our website www.HeritageHealth.net.



Web Site: http://www.HeritageHealth.net

Contact Details: Contact: Dr. Timothy Nelson, DC www.HeritageHealth.net
Tim@HeritageHealth.net 303.694.1245
7555 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 2
Englewood, CO 80112