Backpack Safety

INTRODUCING THE

 airpack

Here at Touch of Life Chiropractic we are aware of the growing concern over backpack safety. Children and adults are carrying heavier and heavier loads putting strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back and neck.  This can lead to rounding forward of the upper back, forward head tilt, increased weight distribution on one side of the body, lower back pain, and poor posture.  

The AirPacks System is an innovative "air technology" that uses a combination of air-filled straps and a lumbar cushion to redistribute weight to the stronger, load bearing muscles in the hips and lower back.  By shifting weight to the lower extremities, the AirPacks System creates a fulcrum that promotes an upright standing position. Encouraging the body to stand posturally correct, the AirPacks System actually improves the overall biomechanics of the spine, reducing the stress on the body by 80% and lightening the effective load by 50%. So the wearer actually FEELS BETTER.

Come in today to check out an AIRPACK for yourself.  Dr. Lee will also be happy to check your &/or your child’s current backpack or shoulder bag for safety.

Here are some basic guidelines for proper backpack use.

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	Ideally carry no more than 10-15% of your body weight.
	Distribute the weight evenly.  Put the heavier items on the bottom to keep off the weight off of your shoulders and maintain better posture.
	Wear both shoulder straps unless your pack is designed for one shoulder.  Carrying a heavy backpack using one strap can shift the weight to one side, which can lead to neck and muscle spasms, low back pain, and walking improperly.
	Choose backpacks that have heavily padded shoulder straps and a lumbar support.  Non-padded straps dig into the shoulders causing pain due to compressional loading of the acromio-clavicular joints and stress on the trapezius muscles.
	Choose a backpack that has a lumbar cushion.  The lumbar cushion will redistribute weight to the lower extremities, creating a fulcrum that facilitates an upright standing position.
	Lift it right.  Bend your knees when picking up a heavy backpack.
	Carry only what is needed.  Every extra item adds weight!

How to Fit:

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