CHOOSE A SAFE BACKPACK
08/27/2007
When Shopping for Back-to-School Supplies:
Choose a Safe Backpack.
Now that kids tote backpacks everywhere, backpack-related aches and pains are on the rise. Even though backpacks are a popular and practical way to carry schoolbooks and supplies, overloaded packs can strain young muscles, especially when kids sling them over one shoulder in an unbalanced fashion. The Physical Therapy Department at Doylestown Hospital offers the following tips for choosing the best backpack for your child. Choose packs, which are size appropriate for your child with:
o Wide, padded, shoulder packs-narrow straps can cause pain and restrict circulation.
o Two shoulder straps-one shoulder packs don't distribute weight evenly.
o A waist strap distributes the weight of a heavy load more evenly.
o Multiple compartments also help to distribute the weight of the load.
o Reflective material, which is easily seen in early morning hours or at dusk.
Rolling backpacks are OK but remember that they still must be carried upstairs. Another tip is to teach your child to pack the backpack properly by placing heaviest items closest to the back. Remove articles that can be left at home and clean out the backpack every day.
*Optimally, a child should not carry loads greater than 15% of their body weight and should not exceed 20% of total body weight.
The American Academy of Pediatrics cautions, "Backpacks that are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can cause problems which may injure young muscles and joints and lead to severe back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as cause posture problems. Before shopping for back-to-school supplies, consider these tips. Call the physical therapy department at Doylestown Hospital at 215-345-2894 for further information.
