As the school year quickly approaches, and Target, Wal–Mart and others display their latest in backpack styles it is a good idea to look into the safety of your child’s backpack. One factor associated with musculoskeletal pain in school-age children is backpack use. Many school aged children are carrying a backpack that exceeds the legal occupational weight established for adults, causing an occupational risk for children. The day to day repetition of carrying heavy school backpacks may place additional stress on the rapidly growing child’s spinal structures, making them more susceptible to postural changes. A study completed by Lohman et al found a positive correlation between backpack weight and spinal deviations in the cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid-back) spines.
Some Guidelines for Backpack use include:
Do not let the backpacks weight exceed 15% of your body weight (less for younger children)
Use a backpack with wide, padded straps and a padded back. Use both straps so the backpack rests symmetrically on your back.
Tighten the straps to allow the backpack to rest 2 inches above your waist.
Place the heaviest items closes to your spine
Use good lifting techniques: keeping your spine straight and bend at your knees to lift.
Consider purchasing a backpack with wheels.
Engage in regular exercise and stretching for your back.
If you have any questions regarding any backpack, stop in and have us take a look. If your child is complaining about back and neck pain or any other pain, give us a call. There are stretches you or your child can do to strengthen your back and minimize your pain go to our blog to find out more!
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