From carrying heavy textbooks, binders, and supplies to hauling it across a large school campus, it is easy to see how so many students develop back pain from their backpacks. While surprising for many people to learn, an estimated 5,415 injuries due to backpacks were seen in hospitals in 2013 alone. These injuries may seem like minor aches and pains, but your child may develop permanent damage after carrying a backpack with excessive weight. To reduce their risk of pain and permanent damage, make sure your child uses these tips when purchasing and carrying their backpack.
Use the Right Backpack
Your child may ask for the trendy backpacks that all their friends are using. However, you should focus on quality over style when shopping for a new backpack. Here are a few things to look for in a good quality backpack:
- Material – Choose a lightweight material such as canvas or nylon. Avoid leather or suede, which will place more weight on your child’s back.
- Padded – A padded back will give your child an extra layer of protection. Also, make sure the shoulder straps are padded.
- Belt – Select a backpack that offers a waist belt. Connecting the belt around your child’s waist will help redistribute weight off the back and onto the hips.
- Wheels – If your child’s school permits, consider purchasing a backpack that has wheels. This will allow your child to wheel the backpack instead of carrying it on their back.
Pack the Backpack Right
Ensuring weight is distributed properly is key to preventing your child’s back pain. You and your child will need to learn how to pack the backpack the right way.
Place the heaviest items, such as textbooks and binders, in the backpack first. This will keep them closer to your child’s body, making the backpack easier to carry. Add the smaller, lighter items in the other compartments but try to distribute the weight of these items evenly.
Carry the Backpack Correctly
Once packed, have your child try the backpack on. This will allow you to adjust the straps. Tighten or loosen the straps so the bottom of the backpack is about an inch or two above your child’s waist. The top of the backpack should be below the base of your child’s skull. The backpack should not be low enough to reach the buttocks, since this will cause the weight to pull down on the back, straining the back and causing pain. Make sure your child does not bend forward while carrying the backpack, either. Hunching over with this extra weight on their back will affect their posture.
If your child begins to complain of back or neck pain, consider removing items from the backpack.
To learn more about preventing back pain from carrying backpacks, contact Tieperman Health & Wellness in Frisco, TX at (214) 705-1799.
Back Pain Frisco TX
Frisco TX Chiropractor | Tieperman Health & Wellness
8760 3rd St
Frisco, Texas 75034
214-705-1799