Overweighed backpacks can lead to back problems in kids

Experts have suggested that there is a need to tackle the back bone and muscle problems caused from heavy backpacks. According to health experts, over 60 percent of schoolchildren with heavy back packs have been found to be suffering from back bone and muscle problems, neck pain and also slouched postures.

"Not just this, carrying backpacks over one shoulder is a wrong practise, as it makes muscles strain. The spine leans to the opposite side, stressing the middle back, ribs, and lower back more on one side than the other and this muscle imbalance can cause muscle strain, muscle spasm, and back pain," said Satnam Singh Chhabra, director, Neuro Spine Department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.

Many parents worry about the wrong postures of their children and complain about them to the doctors. Though doctors can’t help about the heavy weights they suggest the parents to encourage their off springs to bear the weight equally with both the shoulders. They also suggest that every child should attend the physical education period to be flexible and stay fit.

"Apart from taking care of their nutrition like proteins, vitamin D, calcium, etc, we suggest children should participate in physical activity and should be encouraged to play outdoor games as this will help them strengthen their muscles and increase their stamina too."

By Lizitha