The spine is vital for children as it can affect other areas of the body. However, back pain and other spinal health problems are common in kids and teenagers. As large, heavy backpacks and prolonged-time sitting (especially in bad postures) can cause kyphosis, cervical spondylosis, low back pain, and other spine problems to children.
According to the study, about 50% of kids and teenagers experience back pain at some point, and up to 10% of them have back pain may have pain that is severe enough to keep them out of school or sport. Thus, it is crucial to raising awareness and taking action in protecting children's spinal health.
Avoid Heavy Backpack
A good design backpack help reduces the chance of back pain. To choose the proper backpack for a child, consider the following factors. Firstly, choose a bag neither wider than the child's torso, nor hang more than 3''-4'' below the waist. Secondly, choose a backpack with wide padded shoulder straps. It is better if it has a waist or chest strap to distribute the heavy loads, and the straps should be wide to prevent bridling the body. Also, position it below the child's shoulder and above hip when carrying the backpack. Do not overpack, or wear one shoulder strap to prevent shoulder alignment issues. Besides, remember to encourage children to remove bags from their shoulders when waiting in line or to stand for a long time.
Keep Proper Posture
A good posture, whether sitting or standing, is crucial to a healthy spine, for improper one will lead to increased strain on the muscles, ligaments, joints, and bones. According to the study, cranking the neck forward for over 20 minutes can strain the cervical vertebrae and deforms the ligaments. Moreover, sitting in a static position for a long time can lead to common work-related problems like low back pain. The very act of sitting puts extra pressure on the spine and compresses the disks that make up the back.
So what is proper posture for a child?
A proper sitting position should allow children's spines to sit in a natural "S" position. The children's back should be straight with shoulders back while sitting. Also, the knees should be in a right angle, and feet should be flat on the floor. Remember, do not cross the legs.
When standing, the back should also be straight with shoulders back. Holding their head up and chin in, and look straight ahead. Besides, keep their knees straight and tuck their tummies in.
Considering either sitting or standing for a prolonged time has adverse effects on spinal health, keeping active and moving from sitting to standing for a fixed time like an hour helps children sustain a healthy spine.
Designed for better ergonomics and learning, the children interactive sit-stand desks E505 and E301 from Ergovida, providing height adjustments allow children to change from sitting to standing easily. It is built to grow with kids into their teen years, making it a smart and logical choice!
As a professional Chinese supplier and manufacturer, ERGOVIDA specializes in designing, manufacturing, and offering simple, durable, ergonomic children study furniture like height-adjustable study desks and chairs, interactive workstations, and multi-functional workbenches. Please contact us at info@ergovida.cn with any questions or further information.
