No More Backpack Blues
Backpacks and scoliosis braces are not always friends. Especially at first, it can be challenging to get comfortable carrying your backpack while wearing your brace, but here are pointers for how to carry your backpack and alternatives to a traditional backpack.
Backpack Tips
WEAR BOTH STRAPS
Wearing both straps better distributes the weight of your backpack. Wearing only one strap can strain that side of your body.
WEAR THE BACKPACK OVER THE STRONGEST MID-BACK MUSCLES
Pay attention to how the backpack is positioned on your back. It should rest evenly in the middle of your back. Make sure that you position the straps so that the backpack does not go below your low back. Keep the heaviest items closer to your body (towards the back of the backpack).
LIGHTEN THE LOAD
Keep the weight of your backpack at 10-15% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 80 lbs, your backpack should weigh no more than 8-12 lbs.
Backpack Alternatives
BACKTPACK
The BackTpack is an alternative to a traditional backpack. Unline backpacks or messenger. Instead of carrying the weight behind you, the BackTpack positions the weight on each side of you. This design can help to eliminate posture distortion and decrease the effort required to carry the load, making it feel lighter as you are able to stand taller. Website: backtpack.com
ROLLING BACKPACK
A rolling backpack is another alternative to a traditional backpack. It eliminates the need to carry anything and can be a good option if you are struggling to get comfortable carrying a backpack with your brace.
