CHILDRENS

It is the time of the year when the world takes focus on children, and their needs. We are devoting the month of September to the wellness of children.

In the past, chiropractors would look to the spine of a child as a perfect example of a healthy spine. Today, more and more, the children we are seeing have major spinal problems. Posture is a major factor keeping a spine healthy. Watch a child sitting at a computer for hours during the day, or lift a pack that a young child is carrying. What do you think this does to a child spine? It is not surprising, reflecting these spinal issues; children today are dealing with more major health issues such as asthma, migraine headaches.

BACKPACK SAFTEY

More than 3,300 children, ages 5-14 years, were treated in emergency rooms for injuries related to backpacks in 1998; these numbers do not include students who went to family physicians or doctors of chiropractic. Children should not be carrying 15% of their body weight in their school back pack. On a 90 pound child, the backpack should weight no more than 13pds. Weigh your child back pack how much does it weigh? Many children like to carry their back pack on their shoulder,

Or with loose straps, hung low on their back. Backpacks need to fit a child so the weight is distributed evenly over the back. With the united voice of the parent, alternatives can be found. Giving homework is in designated subject on designated nights would allow for distribution of the books throughout the week. Considering renting an extra set of books, and keeping them at home Teach your child the importance of properly wearing a backpack. Have your child's spine check to make sure it is not being stressed.

SCOLIOSIS

There is several different "warning signs" to look for to help determine if you or someone you love has scoliosis. Should you notice any one or more of these signs, you should schedule an exam with a doctor.

· Shoulders are different heights- one shoulder blade is more prominent than the other shoulder

· Head is not centered directly above the pelvis

· Appearance of a raised, prominent hip

· Rib cages are at different heights

· Uneven waist changes look or texture of the skin overlying the spine leaning of entire body to one side