If your child has recently started school and is complaining of back pain, a possible cause is the bag of school books which they carry with them to school. Back problems that start in childhood can become more severe as your child grows into an adult. For this reason, it is vital that you take steps to address any back pain your kid is complaining about. Below is a guide which will help you to ensure your child has a healthy back and that carrying their things to school isn't causing them any problems. Read on to discover everything you need to know.

Make sure they use a backpack rather than a satchel 

While it is traditional for children to carry their books and school equipment in a satchel, this may not be the healthiest choice for your kid's back. Because satchels are worn slung to one side, the weight of the books and other things inside the bag can pull your child's body to one side. As your kid leans to one side, their spine will bend out of its natural position, placing a great deal of strain on the bones and surrounding muscles. Further damage to muscles can occur if your kid tries to counterbalance the weight of the satchel by leaning the other way. The best solution to this problem is to buy your child a backpack for their school things. The two straps on a backpack will evenly distribute the weight of the bag across your child's shoulders, helping to reduce the amount of strain placed on the back.

Take your child to a chiropractor

As soon as your kid complains about having a sore back, you should book them an appointment with a children's chiropractor. This type of chiropractor is specially trained to treat disorders which affect young people's backs. The chiropractor will carry out an initial assessment and make as your child to perform certain motions so they can assess their level of mobility and the areas of the back which are affected. The chiropractor will then massage your kid's back to realign the spine and to release tension from the surrounding muscles. They may also give your child a number of exercises and stretches to do at home which will further aid their recovery.

If you would like further information about keeping your child's back healthy, you should contact a children's chiropractor today.