Whether adorned with cartoon characters or cool designs, backpacks are essential to a child’s school routine, offering a practical way to tote books and school supplies.
However, if not used properly, they can lead to back pain, posture problems, and even long-term spinal issues. With the start of a new school year, it’s important to ensure your child’s backpack is both functional and safe.
Dr. Fowler offers the following tips to help you ensure your child’s backpack won’t cause harm to their spine.
Avoid Overpacking
One of the most common mistakes is packing a backpack that is too heavy. Overloaded backpacks can strain a child’s back, leading to discomfort and potential long-term issues. “No more than 15% of the weight of the child or person, whether it’s a kid or a hiker, should be carried,” said Dr. Fowler. For example, if your child weighs 100 pounds, the maximum backpack weight should be around 10 to 15 pounds.
Ensure Proper Fit
Another mistake is wearing the backpack too low. The backpack should rest in the curve of the lower back, not hang near the waistline or sit on top of the hips. When a backpack is positioned too low, it can cause unnecessary stress on the spine and shoulders. Choose a backpack with broad straps to distribute the weight evenly across the shoulders, and consider one with a waist strap for added support.
Choosing the Right Backpack
When selecting a backpack, look for one that has adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel for extra comfort. Features like multiple compartments can also help evenly distribute weight. It’s important to choose a backpack that is the right size for your child—not too big, as this encourages overpacking, which leads back to the original issue of excessive weight.
Investing in a well-fitted, appropriately loaded backpack is worth it, as it can help prevent spinal issues for your child. And that’s priceless. Also, remember to regularly check how your child wears their backpack and adjust it as needed to ensure it remains comfortable and safe.
Contact Crimson Chiropractic Center today to schedule a backpack check for your child!