With the first day of school quickly approaching, you may be thinking more about your child’s health. One aspect you may not be thinking about is their orthopedic health. While back pain and other such concerns are typically associated with older adults, children and adolescents can have these issues as well. The orthopedic specialists at UAB Medical West are here to share tips to help you keep your child’s back healthy this school year and beyond.
5 Pediatric Orthopedic Health Tips for This School Year
Focusing on your child’s orthopedic health can impact their overall wellness. By maintaining a healthy back, your child can avoid pain and feel comfortable as they attend classes. Below are some ways you can do that this school year and beyond:
1. Maintain Proper Posture
Your parents may have told you not to slouch growing up. Did you know that they were doing so for your orthopedic health? Poor posture strains the muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to pain and discomfort. Along with standing and sitting up straight, there are other ways to improve your child’s posture, including:
- Exercise and stretching
- Proper lifting of heavy objects
- Walking slowly and taking smaller steps
- Keeping abdominal muscles tight
- Using ergonomic furniture
While these habits may not entirely prevent postural issues from arising or cure existing ones, they can enhance your child’s comfort. An orthopedic specialist can provide suggestions on how to improve their posture. To schedule a consultation, contact UAB Medical West’s Orthopedic Clinic.
2. Stay Active
Like other parts of the body, the back requires exercise to keep it healthy. Encouraging physical activity in your child, whether through a team sport or free play, can help improve their orthopedic health. This physical activity can improve all aspects of their health beyond the orthopedic.
If they do play a sport, however, encourage them to take safety precautions to avoid potential injuries. They should wear the necessary protective equipment and refrain from overexerting themselves during practices or games. Their coach can advise you on sport-specific equipment and safety practices.
3. Pack a Healthy Lunch
If your child brings their lunch to school, what you put in their lunchbox can impact their orthopedic health. To keep their bones and muscles strong, consider sending foods high in calcium and Vitamin D, like:
- Dairy
- Nuts
- Soy products
- Leafy greens
- Fortified grains
Even if your child buys their lunch at school, you can implement these foods into their diet at home to make a difference in their orthopedic health.
4. Choose the Right Backpack
Your child carries a lot of things with them to school, like their books and supplies. As a result, their backpack may be quite heavy, which may strain your child’s back. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, your child’s backpack should not weigh more than 15% of their body weight. For example, if your child is 100 pounds, their backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 15 pounds.
Beyond the contents of the backpack, you should consider its features when selecting a new one. Backpacks with two broad shoulder straps, a padded back, and a waist belt can help to evenly distribute the weight across your child’s body. The bag should also be proportionate to the height of your child. Taking your child backpack shopping with you can help you to determine the proper fit.
5. Schedule a Check-up
By taking your child in for a regular wellness exam with their pediatrician, you can address issues with their health as they arise. This is especially the case with orthopedic health concerns. You can share concerns with your child’s pediatrician, who can then suggest possible treatment or refer you to an orthopedic specialist if needed.
UAB Medical West has several health centers in our service area that offer well-child visits. If you need a new pediatrician or family physician, we invite you to contact us to schedule an appointment. We can accommodate your schedule to make sure your child is healthy before they start the new school year.
Keep Your Child’s Back Healthy This School Year with UAB Medical West
Maintaining your child’s orthopedic health goes beyond simply selecting the right backpack for their size and other needs. A consultation with an orthopedic specialist, like those at UAB Medical West’s surgical center, can be beneficial in treating and preventing issues. To schedule your child’s appointment, contact us today. We want to be your partner in their overall health and wellness.
See an Orthopedic Specialist at UAB Medical West
Whether your child has suffered a sports injury or you need guidance on their orthopedic health, UAB Medical West is here to help. To get started, contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists today.