Often, problems also arise when students wear the backpack improperly. Slung over one shoulder, it causes the person to tend to lean to one side, compensating for the uneven weight. This can cause vertebral subluxations as well as strained muscles and even scoliosis. Incorrect posture while wearing backpacks can also lead to serious spinal misalignments. Students who lean forward under the extra weight can put added stress on the lumbar region, while rounding the shoulders because of uncomfortable straps can increase the curvature of the thoracic region.
Narrow straps can cut circulation to the arms and hands.
This helps to prevent subluxations as well as muscle strains. With other backpacks, the contents settle at the bottom, placing concentrated stress on one part of the back. Their wide, padded and contoured straps increase comfort and help improve carrying posture. Doctors can use these backpacks to educate young people about proper backpack use, as well as the dangers of subluxations caused by physical stress. The endorsement contract will also help provide needed funds for WCA efforts in other areas, including public relations, political action, and subluxation research.