Originally published March 5 2007
Large handbags, purses cause back pain
by David Gutierrez, staff writer
(NaturalNews) Strain to the body from carrying bags that are too heavy may lead to health complications including muscle spasms; pain in the back, neck or joints; sprains or strains; and even headaches. Health professionals recommend carrying lighter loads and using backpacks instead of single-strap bags, such as messenger bags or large purses.
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What you need to know - Conventional View
• The muscles in the neck and shoulder run up to the head, while the nerves in the neck run all the way down the arms. This means that a strain applied at one point can have effects throughout the body.
• Heavy bags place unhealthy pressure on the neck or shoulder, which often leads to upper back problems, especially over time.
• Good practices can reduce strain on the body. Correct posture, with the head and shoulders held upright, is one of the best ways to protect against muscle and nerve damage.
• Heavier objects should be placed near the bottom and rear of bags. Children should carry less than 15 percent of their body weight in backpacks. Adults using single-strap bags, such as messenger bags and purses, should not carry more than 10 percent of their weight.
• Moving a single-strap bag from shoulder to shoulder or switching between different bags also can help stave off health problems.
• Quote: "Two straps are better than one." - Dr. Jason Moore, chiropractor
Resources you need to know
• Author Mike Adams reviewed the pain-reducing BackTPack product in a previous NaturalNews article: www.NaturalNews.com/016830.html
Bottom line
• Carrying heavy bags, particularly on one shoulder, can cause serious health problems.
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