Backpacks: Lighten Your Child’s Load

Backpacks: Lighten Your Child’s Load

• Created inNewsletter Library,Back, Body & Joint Pain

As millions of kids get ready to go back to school, many will pull outold backpacks or purchase new ones. While the books, homework assignments,lunches, and other school gear those bags carry may be important for successin school, some experts point to backpack use as the leading cause of agrowing trend in back pain among youngsters. In fact, a recent study conductedin Italy found that nearly 60 percent of children carrying heavy backpacksexperienced back pain as a result.

Some states, such as California and New Jersey, have taken legislativeaction to reduce the weight of students’ backpacks in their schooldistricts. However, even for residents of those states, government regulationmay not be enough. Whether you are looking out for your child’s welfareor you use a backpack yourself, here are some steps recommended by theAmerican Chiropractic Association to lighten the load.

Tips for purchasing a new pack:

• Be selective. Look for ergonomically designed packs,such as the Samsonite Chiropak, that distribute weight evenly along theshoulders and spine. Ask your chiropractor for suggestions, and havehim or her look at the fit of a pack you have purchased.
• Go small. The smaller the pack, the less likely yourchild is to overload it with books and other materials. Look for packsthat feature special compartments for different types of items— suchas pencils, calculators, books, or folders.
• Select wide, padded straps. Backpacks that are designedwith broader straps and ample padding are much more comfortable— andhealthier.

How to use a backpack wisely:

• Lighten up. Aim for a backpack weight of no more than10 percent of your child’s body weight. That means if your childweighs 85 pounds, her pack shouldn’t exceed 8.5 pounds. If yourchild is required to carry weight above that 10 percent, talk to yourchild’s teacher about ways to reduce the load.
• Position correctly. A properly adjusted backpack willcreate less stress on the back. Make sure the pack doesn’t hangtoo low (four inches or more below the waist) which can strain the back.
• Two is better than one. Educate your child about theimportance of wearing both shoulder straps, which will distribute weightmore evenly.

If you or your child experience tingling or numbness in the hands, ordiscomfort in the back or neck after wearing a backpack, discontinue useand seek the advice of your doctor of chiropractic.