Backpacks, Purses, and Your Spine

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You probably don't think anything of carrying around your heavy backpack, bag, or purse with you throughout the day. But those bags can all cause your muscles to be off balance. Over time, muscle tension accumulates, which can lead to spinal misalignment. Fortunately, we know the signs you need to look for.

NECK AND BACK PAIN

This one is pretty easy, as most people think of neck and back pain when it comes to chiropractic. When you carry a purse, or wear your backpack on one shoulder, your body tries to compensate for the uneven weight distribution. Your body does this by altering your posture. Your muscles end up working overtime to compensate for the added weight and the posture changes. Eventually, this will lead to recurring neck and back pain.

STIFF MUSCLES

The ligaments and tendons in your neck, back, and arms all work together to help you carry your bag around. After days, months, and years of toting around a bag, your spine can compress, which leads to chronic pain. Furthermore, prolonged pressure on your joints and back can cause even more serious problems. Give chiropractic a try before your pain becomes chronic!

ABNORMAL GAIT

The change might be so slight, that you don't even notice it, but your gait can change due to the added weight on your shoulder. You might be shifting your weight unevenly or straining to compensate for the extra weight from your bag. This abnormal gait can eventually affect your spine, causing it to curve unnaturally. The good news is that regular chiropractic adjustments can correct this, and prevent it from happening again!

FIND RELIEF AT PREFERRED CHIROPRACTIC

You probably noticed these issues all of have a few things in common: they can be solved by not carrying a bag, or with the help of chiropractic care! If you can't avoid carrying around your bag all day, make sure to call us to schedule your next appointment!