Stand Up for National Posture Month

National Posture Month.  The American Chiropractic Association sponsors this posture education campaign annually. 

The emphasis this year is on the kids.  For years, parents have told their kids to stand up straight, without really knowing why it is so important.  There are many activities that make up a child’s daily routine that can have an impact on their spinal health.  Of course, a Doctor of Chiropractic should check your children  for improper posture or improper movement regularly.

Following are some tips for the parents for the rest of the time.

• When you lift your baby, always support his or her back and neck with your hands.
• Use an approved car seat that supports your baby’s head and neck.  Most states require the use of car seats for children under the age of 4 and fewer than 40 lbs.
•  Provide a firm bed for your child.  When choosing a mattress, look for one that is comfortably supportive.  Not too firm, not too soft.
• Be selective when choosing a pillow for your older children.  A pillow should not be so thick that it causes your child’s head and neck to be propped up or angled sharply away from their body.
• Check your child’s backpack.  Make sure the straps are padded and worn over both shoulders.  Also, weigh the contents of their backpacks; the total weight should not be more than 10 % of your child’s body weight. 
• Be sure your children’s workstation is ergonomically designed for their size.  Most workstations are fitted for the adult members of the family and may not work properly for children.  Position the computer monitor so that the top of the monitor is at or below eye level.  Place a footrest under their feet.
•  If your child is involved in sports, make sure all of their equipment fits properly.  Also, if they are involved in soccer, make sure they are taught how to properly head the ball to avoid injuries.
•  Make sure your child has enough calcium included in his or her diet.  The ACA recommends one percent or skim milk for children over 2 years old and whole milk for those under 2.  Calcium is essential for healthy bones and reduces the risk of joint and muscle related injuries.
•  Make sure your child avoids sugar loaded, caffeinated and carbonated drinks.  Caffeine can dehydrate your youngster, and the high levels of phosphorous in sodas interfere with calcium absorption.
• Finally, make sure that your child eats a well-balanced diet and gets plenty of rest.  Consult with your chiropractor about supplements that may be appropriate for your child’s stage of growth.

Ask your Chiropractor today! Call our office today at (908) 813-8200 or complete our easy online form to schedule an initial consultation.

“The longer I live the less confidence I have in drugs and the greater is my confidence in the regulation and administration of diet and regimen.”  ~John Redman Coxe ,M.D. 1800

Dr. James Fedich

CHIROPRACTOR
info@villagefamlychiro.com
http://www.villagefamilychiro.com/

This is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.  This information is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor.