We tend to associate back pain with age, but the worrying truth is more and more young people are experiencing back problems. So what can you do to protect the health of your children’s spines and to minimise their risk of developing back pain as they grow older.
Here our Southend chiropractor has two surprising tips that will help you look after your kids’ spines. (The second one will shock you!)
1: Choose the Right Footwear
Sure, kids can be particular about what they wear, but hang fire before you pick up the latest pair of Batman trainers or whatever your children are into at the moment.
When buying trainers, make sure you choose the type that supports the bones of your children’s’ feet. Certain types of trainers tend to be too soft which can lead to flat feet and back pain. Some trainers also tend to quickly wear out and loose shock absorption, so change them every six months if your children wear trainers on a regular basis.
Lace-up shoes are the best choice for protecting your children against back pain. This is because they tend to “hug” the feet and keep them firmly in place. Shoes with wide straps are also effective at keeping your children’s feet snug.
2: Turn Your Children Upside Down
This is probably going to sound quite strange to most of you, but holding your children upside down by their calves can be really good for protecting the health of their spines. Yes, we are being serious!
This exercise (which your children will find great fun, by the way) is not only effective in creating space between each vertebrae, but it can also unlock stiff joints and relieve tight muscles.
Obviously, you should only ever carry out this exercise in a safe place. Always place a soft mat beneath your child. DO NOT RISK INJURY IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM.
Ask your child to kneel on all fours, and then pick them up steadily by their calves. Never lift a child by their arms or their feet as you could dislocate their shoulders or ankles.
Most chiropractors recommend holding your child in this position for a few minutes at least three times a week for toddlers and children up to 10. But of course, be careful not to strain your own back! If your child is too heavy, don’t do the exercise!
We regularly treat children here at Cliffs Chiropractic clinic. For specific advice on your child or on the tips provided in this article, get in touch. We’ll be happy to help.