The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (Vic) conducted a survey of 100+ women and found that the average weight of their handbags was 3.6kg. Over 75% of the women admitted they always carry their handbag on the same shoulder.

A heavy handbag can pull the spine out of line, straining the muscles of the back and making you lean in the opposite direction to compensate for the weight.

What you can do to avoid this happening to you:

• Regularly clean excess stuff from your heavy handbag
• Bigger handbags carry more so opt for a smaller bag
• Choose a bag with a wide, long strap and ideally wear the bag across your body
• If you can’t wear your bag diagonally across your shoulder make sure you swap the side you carry it on
• Carry a smaller water bottle and refill it instead of carrying a large bottle
• Focus on your posture, walk upright and don’t slouch
• Carry your devices and work folders in separate bags and distribute the weight as evenly as possible
• Don’t wait to get treatment for pain – get your spine checked at a chiropractor to avoid injury