Kids today are lugging around heavy, over-sized backpacks that can cause serious problems, including disc compression, shoulder pain, and headaches. The same goes for adults with their overstuffed purses and work totes. According to experts, 75 to 85 percent of Americans will have back pain at some point during their lives and 14 percent of adults experience neck pain. To lighten your load and your child’s, the closer the bag is to the body, the better. Smaller bags are typically better than larger ones and the same goes for smaller straps. Also, speak to your child’s teacher about ways to carry less in their bags during the school day.