If your child repeatedly complains of back pain, arrange an assessment with their GP. School activities, bags or footwear may be worth discussing, but they do not establish the cause. The questions below can help you describe your child’s day without assuming that their spine is damaged.
1. What bag does your child use?
Ask whether carrying the schoolbag is uncomfortable, check what needs to be carried and whether the straps fit comfortably. Discuss persistent symptoms with your child’s GP rather than assuming the bag has changed their spine.
2. What shoes is your child wearing?
Check whether shoes fit comfortably and whether your child reports foot pain, rubbing or difficulty walking. If these problems persist, seek advice from an appropriate health professional. Shoe fit alone cannot explain every episode of hip or back pain.
3. How is your child sitting at school?
Ask which classroom activities are uncomfortable and whether your child can change position during the day. Avoid asking them to hold a rigid spinal shape for long periods. Describe persistent pain, night pain or other symptoms to their GP.
Your child’s GP can assess ongoing back pain and advise on care or referral. If you contact MyChiro in Bondi Junction, tell us your child’s age, symptoms and any medical advice already received. Any proposed care needs an appropriate assessment and discussion of benefits, risks and alternatives.
Photo: Children at school by Lupuca licensed under Creative commons 5
