THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, December 30, 1995 TAG: 9512280026
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A8 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 36 lines
Regarding ``Beasts of Burden'' by Michelle Mizal (Daily Break, Dec. 15): While I think the article is cute making light of the weight of books students carry to school, it states that carrying these books can cause back ailments such as scoliosis. Ms. Mizal cites the authority of a single practitioner of chiropractic and says that ``every child should be checked by a chiropractor to detect spinal problems and correct them.''
I am an orthopedic spine surgeon. There is no evidence in medical literature that students' carrying heavy books causes any significant back ailment. Every child should be screened for scoliosis during the usual school physical, free of charge in most schools. It is wrong, alarmist and unnecessarily expensive for every child to be evaluated by a chiropractor or an orthopedic surgeon. Most questions about back pain can be answered by a family physician or pediatrician.
I have discussed this matter with orthopedic surgeons with more than 100 years of experience in Hampton Roads. There is no disagreement.
I ask that in the future you be more careful in your pronouncements. People take what they read seriously. I fear that your article will cause unneeded worry and expense to many families.
MARK KERNER, M.D.
Medical director
The Spine Center at Maryview
Portsmouth, Dec. 15, 1995 by CNB