Every year it seems kids backpacks get heavier and heavier. And every year we see children in our practice with spinal issues due to heavy or improperly worn backpacks. Many of these problems can be prevented by checking fit and size for your child.
We also suggest having spines checked periodically by a chiropractor.
The Massachusetts Chiropractic Society is offering some tips and guidance for backpack safety.
*Limit the backpack's weight to no more than 5-10% of the child's body weight. A heavier backpack will cause the child to bend forward in an attempt to support the weight on his or her back. For example a 50lb child should not carry more than 5lbs.
*The backpack should never hang more than 4 inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking.
*A backpack with individualized compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively. Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child's back.
*Bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry and the heavier the backpack will be.
*Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. Lugging the backpack around by one strap can cause the disproportionate shift of weight to one side, leading to neck and muscle spasms as well as low-back pain.
*Wide, padded straps are very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable and can dig into your child's shoulders.
*The shoulder straps should be adjustable so the backpack can be fitted to your child's body. Straps that are too loose can cause the backpack to dangle uncomfortably and cause spinal misalignment and pain.
*Use backpacks on wheels or rollerpacks with caution. Children tend to overload these bags and then need to haul them up bus and school stairs resulting in injury. Many school districts have banned them because they clutter hallways resulting in dangerous trips and falls.
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