LAS VEGAS, Sept. 9, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Neck and Back Clinics in Las Vegas, NV hosted a school supply drive for Martinez Elementary School on August 17th. The pain management center collected school supplies for students such as notebook paper, pencils, pens, markers and crayons from donations dropped off at the practice's locations. In conjunction with the school supply drive, the practice is also raising awareness about the dangers of over-weighted backpacks for young students. The chiropractor is providing posture correction tips and encouraging parents to select backpacks that adequately protect children's spines.
Las Vegas chiropractor Dr. Benjamin S. Lurie hosted a back-to-school supply drive to benefit Martinez Elementary School, located in North Las Vegas. The back-to-school drive is part of Dr. Lurie's commitment to giving back to the community. Donations were accepted at each of The Neck and Back Clinics locations throughout the Las Vegas community. Patients were asked to bring notebooks, paper, pencils, pens, markers, glue sticks or other school supplies.
"Partnering with Martinez Elementary School meant we were able to provide their students with much-needed school supplies," said Dr. Lurie. "Every student deserves a quality education, and no child should be left without because their family is unable to afford school supplies."
In conjunction with the back-to-school supply drive, Dr. Lurie is also reaching out to parents and teachers regarding the dangers of over-weighted backpacks.
"There has been an increase in the number of children complaining about back and neck pain," said Dr. Lurie. "While there are many contributing factors, one of the biggest causes is an over-weighted backpack."
Dr. Lurie says that many students fill their backpacks with books and supplies that are simply too heavy for a small body to safely support. Some children also carry their backpacks using only a single strap. This causes uneven weight distribution, straining the middle spine and the surrounding soft tissue muscles.
According to Dr. Lurie, over-weighted backpacks can lead to a host of postural problems in students. Poor posture while sitting in a classroom desk can also strain the lower back, leading to back pain.
"We are committed to educating parents and teachers about the importance of posture correction for students," said Dr. Lurie. "Simple steps, like properly fitting a backpack to a child's body and wearing both straps, can help prevent pain and injury."
The Las Vegas chiropractor recommends choosing packs made from lightweight canvas, rather than leather. Straps should be several inches thick and padded for optimal weight distribution.
"An undiagnosed misalignment sets a child up for a lifetime of back pain," said Dr. Lurie. "Early intervention, including chiropractic care and massage therapy, can make a big difference."
Parents and teachers who wish to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic care for students may visit the Las Vegas chiropractor's website and Facebook page.