More than 40 million American students use backpacks, from toddlers to college students. They're a simple, effective way to carry around books and other necessary items.
Most people, however, wear and load their backpacks incorrectly, which can lead to a lifetime of problems. Incorrectly worn backpacks can injure muscles and joints, and lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems that can persist for years. In 2001, more than 7000 emergency room visits nationwide were related to backpacks.
All these problems, however, are quite easily avoidable.
Selecting the Right Preschool backpack
The first step is to select the right backpack. Good features to look for are wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back, a waist strap to distribute weight more evenly across the body. The best backpacks are lightweight and have multiple compartments so that the weight is not centered in one place.
You might also consider a rolling backpack, although they are more difficult to move up stairs and over uneven outdoor terrain.
Talk about Backpack Safety with Your Child
You should also talk to your child about wearing and using his or her backpack correctly. Tighten the straps so that the backpack is close to the body and sits about two inches above the waist. Show your child how to pick up the pack right, by bending at the knees and lifting from the legs.
Put heavy textbooks closest to the body, and tell your child to always use both shoulder straps. Kids who wear their backpacks over one shoulder will lean sideways to compensate, which can lead to upper and lower back pain.
Avoid Backpack Overload
Overloading is another serious issue and source of discomfort. Doctors and physical therapists recommend that children carry no more than 10-15% of their body weight. Yet the average student carries close to 25%, and 3 out of 10 wear backpacks with a third of their body weight.
Talk to your children to make sure they aren't carrying all their textbooks home every day. Make sure that the school allows them to make frequent stops at their lockers, and consider purchasing a second set of textbooks to keep at home. Let your child know that he or she shouldn't carry around unnecessary items such as CD players or video games in their backpacks.
Ask your child about any back or shoulder pain, and keep an eye out for signs of discomfort. Heavy, improperly loaded weights will pull the children backwards, forcing them to compensate by leaning forward at the hips or arching their back. Thin straps can also pose a problem, inhibiting circulation and causing tingling or numbness.
If you are still concerned, consider talking to your child's school about educating students about proper backpack use.
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