Back to school: How to avoid backpack injuries

By Terri Rosel, NP-C for Cherry Health

Thousands of children each year suffer from a variety of backpack-related injuries, including back and neck pain, shoulder pain, muscle strains and spasms, nerve damage and headaches.

These conditions are preventable with just a few quick tips:

Check weight: The total weight of the load should not exceed more than 10% of the child’s body weight. For example, if your child weighs 100 lbs., the weight of the backpack should not be more than 10 lbs.
Right size: choose a backpack that fits the child’s size. An 8-year-old needs a smaller backpack than a teenager.
Design: Thick, padded straps are best. A waist strap is also very important. Our shoulders are not meant to carry all that weight
Packing: Place the heaviest items closest to the child’s back. Using the bag’s compartments to even out the weight helps too.
Wear the bag right: Be sure to use both shoulder straps when carrying the bag. If the bag has a waist strap, use it! Do not lean forward when walking or standing with the bag. Stand up straight.

Hopefully these simple tips can save unwanted pain and injury this school year.

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.