When handbags cause you pain

Women often have a favourite side for their handbag, but this creates a one-sided strain that can lead to back pain in the long run. — dpa

If leaving the house without your handbag makes you feel as though you forgot to get dressed, you are not alone.

But you might spare a thought for your back.

Because if you’re going to leave the house with your handbag every day, then how you carry it will make all the difference.

Experts say it’s common for handbags to lead to back and neck pain if not carried properly.

As such, they suggest carrying it with the strap across your chest if possible, as that will distribute the weight more evenly.

If your bag doesn’t have a longer strap, then back health experts suggest you change shoulders regularly, so that you alternate carrying your bag on your left and right shoulders.

Meanwhile, if you tend to carry your bag in the crook of your arm, only do so if it’s a smaller, lighter model like a clutch.

This is as carrying anything heavier this way will take its toll on your shoulder.

Keep your bag as close to your body as possible to avoid straining your back, otherwise, you won’t be evenly loaded.

Also, when carrying your bag, hold your back as straight as you can – good posture will work in your favour.

When it comes to what’s inside your bag, less is definitely more.

Try to keep an eye on what exactly the contents are and leave behind whatever you can bear to part with.

Do think twice if you really need your book, an umbrella and make-up.

A good rule of thumb is to make sure your handbag does not weigh more than 10% of your body weight, say experts.

So if you weigh 60kg, only carry a maximum of 6kg – and bear in mind that this is the outer limit.

If you cannot avoid carrying around a lot, then try replacing your handbag with a backpack as that will distribute the weight more evenly across both shoulders.

Your back will thank you later. – dpa

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