Released on: September 25, 2007, 3:05 pm

Press Release Author: Dr. Mitchell Shea

Industry: Healthcare

Press Release Summary: Learn backpack safety tips for the upcoming school year.
Since most children do not carry backpacks that meet suggested requirements for
safety, Dr. Shea helps students be more safe.


Press Release Body: Dr. Mitchell Shea of Shea Chiropractic wants you to know that
your child\'s backpack might be causing harm! The potential dangers of heavy
backpacks used by children are greater than most parents realize.

According to national guidelines, students should carry backpacks that weigh 10-15%
of their body weight. Yet did you know that 55% of students are carrying backpacks
that weigh more than the recommended weight? (Simmons College, April, 2001)

Dr. Shea said, \"Carrying over this amount can cause permanent damage to a child\'s
back and spine. As a chiropractor, I am seeing more and more children complaining
about back pain and it is often because of the weight they\'re carrying on their
backs to and from school every day. This can have a negative impact on a child\'s
growth and back development.\"

A survey conducted by AIRPACKS in 2000 revealed that 66% of school nurses reported
seeing students with pain or injury caused by backpacks.

According to Dr. Shea, there are some proven tips for what parents can do to avoid
backpack aches and pains. Some of these tips are: wear backpack straps on both
shoulders and not just one, put heavier books closest to the back so that it reduces
awkward strain, teach your child to bend at the knees while lifting backpacks, and
try to reduce the load and only carry what is necessary each day.

Dr. Mitchell Shea, D.C. has helped thousands of patients with back pain. He offers a
first visit for only $30 so that parents and children can see what chiropractic is
all about, without financial risk. Shea Chiropractic is located at 750 East Spring
Street, suite D, Cookeville, TN 38501 and can be reached at 931-526-4084.


Web Site: http://www.drshea.ws

Contact Details: Dr. Mitchell Shea, D.C.
Shea Chiropractic
750 East Spring St., suite D
Cookeville, TN 38501
931-526-4084
http://www.drshea.ws