Every year BackCare Awareness week looks to focus on a particular area concerning back pain and this year’s focus is certainly important. This October, Back Care Awareness Week , focussed on back pain in children.
Some shocking statistics
The BackCare Awareness Week highlighted some shocking new statistics about back pain in children:
- 1 in 4 pupils in UK secondary schools suffer from back pain regularly or on a daily basis
- School bags were associated with a higher rate of back pain – ten-fold higher
- Back pain was also linked to sitting for prolonged periods of time
Prevention Begins at school:
The BackCare organisation has launched a new campaign, The 8000 Schools Campaign, to address this issue. The campaign aims to reach all the secondary schools in the UK of which there are 8,000, and provide practical evidence-based guidance that can make a difference. http://www.backcare.org.uk/news/prevention-begins-at-school/
Some simple steps to keep your child’s back safe
As a parent there are a number of simple steps that you can take to reduce the risk of your child suffering back pain.
Common causes of back pain are associated with children carrying unsuitable and heavy bags and also maintaining a good posture while sitting for prolonged periods at their desk.
School bags:
Start by ensuring that your child’s bag is fit for purpose. We advise that your child uses a rucksack which they should wear appropriately over their shoulders and not slung over one shoulder.
It is important that you regularly check the contents and weight of the bag to ensure that it is not too heavy and that your child is only carrying the necessary items.
Posture:
I’m sure as children most of us heard our parents tell us to ‘stop slouching’ and groaned, however, poor posture is a major contributor to back pain; therefore, as parents we advise that you do encourage your child to sit up straight.
The British Chiropractic Association (BCA) have developed a great programme called Straighten UP UK which is designed to improve posture and help prevent back pain. It is fun and can be done by all the family.
As experienced chiropractors in Fareham we encourage you and your family to start using this 3 minute exercise programme and incorporate it in your daily routine – just like brushing your teeth! (Link to Video)
Our team of Chiropractors in Fareham are here to help your child
If your child is suffering back pain or has discomfort, or you have any questions or are seeking more detailed and specific advice then do please get in touch. You can contact us at Homewood Chiropractic Clinic on 01329 280 283 or email frondesk@homewoodchiropractic.co.uk.
Our Experience Counts: 55 Years in Fareham
Serving the people of Fareham, and surrounding areas of Southampton, Portsmouth, Hampshire and the local areas of Whiteley, Hedge End, Locks Heath & Portchester
