All children at some point carry a backpack to school or events. Most carry them every day. Since kids’ skeletal system is growing rapidly, it’s important to make sure that backpacks are carried correctly. Make sure it’s the right size and weight for one’s child. Buy one with padded straps and ensure it’s snugly fit to the body for good posture. When packing it, make sure the heavier items are going to be carried closer to the child’s back to keep the center of gravity balanced and avoiding strain.
Key Takeaways:
- Childhood back pain has 2 mechanisms at work: posture and the increasing weight being carried inside of a backpack.
- Choose a backpack that offers the best ergonomic benefits to your child and teach them to pack the heaviest items closes to their bodies.
- Children shouldn’t carry more than 15% of their weight on the backs. If the load is heavier, communicate any concerns to the teacher to see what can be done.
“As a chiropractor one of the most common problems 1 see in my office are back pain, neck and shoulder pain, and headaches. Over the years it is not surprising that patients with these types of problems seem to be getting younger and younger. One of the most obvious reasons for early onset of neck and back pain is the increasing weight and size of children’s backpacks.”
