With school back in session, kids are finding that perfect backpack. Disney characters, super heros and more, but the important thing is making sure your child is wearing their backpack the right way.
Here are some tips from Dr. Andrew Casden, associate director of Beth Israel’s Spine Institute.
- Reduce the weight in the pack – weight should not exceed 20% of the child’s body weight.
- Bend at the knees, not at the waist when lifting heavy packs.
- Wear the backpack over both shoulders, not slung over only one.
- Place heavy items in the back of the pack.
- Consider a pack on wheels that can be dragged rather than carried.
Back pain in children is rarely serious, but should not be ignored either. If children complain of persistent pain, you should consult a physician to rule out any medical problems.
this is awesome man
These tips are so important to help our children. We don’t realize how much weight is in those backpacks for our little ones.
Good tips. I can’t wait till kids can carry a single electronic book reader instead of all the cumbersome textbooks. Till then, I invest a bit more in a good, well fitting backpack instead of a cheaper version. Then I add an applique of my kiddos favorite characters. Then they have a signature backpack that is comfort first!
Good info! i see so many kids walking around with heavy backpacks they can hardly hold up. You have to wonder what it’s doing to their backs.