Backpack Safety

A recent study by the American Chiropractic Association indicates that school children are overloading their backs with backpacks, and some are suffering permanent problems as a result. Heavy loads can cause painful neck and back problems and injuries for students who don’t pack or carry their backpacks properly. With children returning to school soon, the time is right to make sure your child is not doing damage to his or her spine while toting their books to and fro.n nFirst, you must look at how the child wears the pack. The most important factor is weight. Students should carry no more than 10-15% of their body weight on their backs. When wearing a backpack, it should not be worn too low on the body, or the student will lean forward to balance out the weight. It should be worn in the middle of the back, about two inches above the waist. Both shoulder straps should be worn, to balance the weight on both sides of the body and to share the weight between the shoulders and the pelvis. If the pack has a chest strap and hip belt, they should be fastened, to keep the load of the pack over the shoulder and stabilize the load to decrease fatigue. Organize the pack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back, and lighter ones in the outside pockets. Students should stop often at lockers if possible instead of carrying all the books they will need for the day. Parents can also talk to schools about lightening the load, by either having a second set of texts in the classroom so that students can leave theirs at home, or by assigning more “paper” homework so children can leave their books at school.n nAs far as design goes, packs should have wide, padded shoulder straps. Narrow straps dig into the shoulders, causing pain and circulation problems. Padded backs protect against sharp edges inside the pack and increase comfort. The pack itself should be light. It should not add unnecessary weight to the load. Rolling packs are a good choice for students who absolutely must carry a heavy load. To choose the correct size pack, measure the length from just below the waistline to the top of the shoulder, and select a backpack that is the same length. Take a few of your child’s books to the store with you and load up the pack, to see if it will be comfortable. n nParents also need to be sticklers about good posture. Backpacks may encourage students to hunch forward, but if they are carried and fitted correctly, children should be able to stand upright comfortably. Parents can help by cleaning out their child’s backpack once a week, so they are not carrying unneeded items. They should also teach their children correct lifting techniques, including bending with both knees instead of at the lower back to pick up their pack. n nPractice backpack safety to help your child maintain a healthy spine. If you have more questions, or would like your child’s backpack checked, please call either Dr. Heller or Dr. Forciea at (414) 774-2300.nnReferences:n“Backpack Safety.” American Academy of Pediatrics flyer.nn“Backpack Safety Month at Allied Health.” Allied Health flyer.nnCurry, Pat. “When Emily’s Backpack Weighs More Than She Does.” Aurora Healthcare Your Health e-newsletter. http://www.aurorahealthcare.org/yourhealth.nnHealthy Child Online. http://www.healthychild.com/save_childs_spine.nn“How to Make Your Child’s Homework Less Painful.” http://nwhealth.edu/nwtoday/healthnews/homework. Northwestern Health Sciences University news release, 2004.nn“Pay Attention to Backpacks.” American Chiropractic Association news release.