The 1 Type Of Bag That Spine Doctors Would Never, Ever Carry

You might be surprised to learn that your go-to bag choice could be a major contributor to back pain. While we all love a good tote or crossbody, spine doctors have a specific bag style they would never touch – and it’s one we all probably own.

The culprit? The dreaded backpack.

While seemingly practical and convenient, backpacks, especially those packed to the brim, can wreak havoc on your spine. Here’s why:

 Uneven weight distribution: Unlike a shoulder bag that distributes weight more evenly, backpacks often lead to uneven weight distribution on your shoulders, throwing your body off balance. This can strain your neck, shoulders, and lower back, leading to muscle imbalances and pain.
 Poor posture: The weight of a heavy backpack can force you to hunch over, leading to poor posture and further strain on your spine. This can also lead to headaches, fatigue, and even breathing difficulties.
 Increased pressure on the spine: The weight of a backpack directly presses on your spine, especially if it’s overloaded. This constant pressure can compress discs and lead to inflammation and pain.

So what can you do?

Spine doctors recommend switching to a well-designed shoulder bag with a broad strap and ample padding. Here’s why:

 Even weight distribution: Shoulder bags distribute the weight across one shoulder, which is generally better for your body’s natural alignment.
 Better posture: A shoulder bag doesn’t pull your back forward like a backpack, encouraging better posture.
 Reduced pressure on the spine: The weight of the bag is carried away from your spine, reducing direct pressure on the delicate structures.

Don’t worry, your love for backpacks doesn’t have to end. Here are some tips for making them spine-friendly:

 Keep it light: Only pack essentials and avoid overloading your bag.
 Use both straps: This distributes the weight more evenly across your shoulders.
 Adjust the straps: Make sure the straps fit snugly and comfortably.
 Consider a waist strap: This helps transfer some of the weight to your hips, reducing strain on your back.

Remember, your spine is the foundation of your body. Taking care of it means being mindful of even the seemingly insignificant choices, like your bag. So, ditch the overloaded backpack and embrace the shoulder bag – your back will thank you for it!