Backpack Safety!

When you move your child's backpack after he or she drops it at the door, does it feel like it contains 40 pounds of rocks? Maybe you've noticed your child struggling to put it on, bending forward while carrying it, or complaining of tingling or numbness.

If you've been concerned about the effects that extra weight might have on your child's still-growing body, your instincts are correct.

Backpacks that are too heavy can cause a lot of problems for kids, like back and shoulder pain, and poor posture.

Did you know that according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries from heavy backpacks result in more than 7,000 emergency room visits per year.  Sprains, strains, and “overuse” injuries were among the top complaints.

When selecting a backpack, look for:

- An ergonomic design
- The correct size: never wider or longer than your child's torso and never hanging more than 4 inches below the waist
- Padded back and shoulder straps
- Hip and chest belts to help transfer some of the weight to the hips and torso
- Multiple compartments to better distribute the weight
- Compression straps on the sides or bottom to stabilize the contents
- Reflective material

Backpack Safety Tips: 

– Your backpack should weigh only 15% – 20% of your total weight
– Use both shoulder straps to keep the weight of the backpack better distributed
– Tighten the straps to keep the load closer to the back
– Organize items and pack heavier things low and towards the center
– Remove items if the backpack is too heavy and only carry items necessary for the day
– Lift properly by bending at the knees when picking up a backpack

Remember: A roomy backpack may seem like a good idea, but the more space there is to fill, the more likely your child will fill it. Make sure your child uses both straps when carrying the backpack. Using one strap shifts the weight to one side and causes muscle pain and posture problems.

Help your child determine what is absolutely necessary to carry. If it's not essential, leave it at home.

#Results.Recovery.Relief. 

602-277-6211

www.tocamd.com

What is Sports Medicine

Treating sports injuries is an extensive process because many common injuries have the potential to cause chronic pain and lingering damage long after the initial problem has healed. Sports medicine is the combination of diagnostic testing, treatment (casting, bracing and prescribing medication), and physical therapy that athletes may need after sustaining an injury. Here are some of the common ailments that are encountered in sports medicine:

• Sprains and strains: Overextending or twisting a muscle or tendon can lead to a sprain or strain. A sprain is more serious and may actually cause tissue to tear. The ACL is one of the most commonly injured ligaments because it is located in the knee and the knees are subject to heavy impact from your body weight. Reducing inflammation is the primary goal of initial treatment. Physical therapy is often utilized over an extended period to strengthen the injured areas and prevent future sports injuries.

• Head trauma: Contact sports have the threat of concussion when cranial impact is made. Thorough screening is needed when a head injury occurs because serious neurological damage could be incurred. Brain images may be taken with an MRI to determine the extent of damage. 
  
• Back injuries: Rigorous activity may have a negative effect on the health of your spine. Over time, back pain and numbness may be experienced. X-rays can be taken to pinpoint areas that have been subject to damage. Physical therapy is often useful in treatment, realigning the structures of the spine and helping to alleviate pressure on nerves in the spinal cord.

If you have experienced a sports injury or noticed a decrease in your athletic performance, then contactTOCA in Phoenix. We specialize in orthopedic medicine and physical therapy. To schedule a consultation with one of our skilled physicians, visit our website or call us at (602) 277-6211