Taking the Back Pain out of Backpacks
Chances are most students are more concerned about how a backpack looks than how it functions. That’s where the doctors come in! Read on for recommendations on how to keep your kiddo’s backpack from causing back pain.
It all adds up. They start with a laptop or tablet, add in books and maybe a musical instrument or sports equipment, and all of a sudden your child’s backpack seems like it weighs more than they do.
That’s why the American College of Orthopaedic Surgeons (ACOS) has recommendations to ensure your child’s backpack isn’t causing back pain.
It recommends starting with the straps. Look for a bag with wide, well-padded straps. When your child slips it on, make sure he or she is wearing both straps to evenly distribute the weight. Check to make sure those straps are snug. If the bag has a waist or chest strap, it can help keep the load closer to the child’s back, which is better than letting it hang loose and low.
Pack heavier items at the bottom and near the center of the bag.
If it looks like your child is struggling to carry their backpack, take a look at what he or she is carrying. Are there items that can be left at home? If not, they might be better off carrying an item separately, rather than packing it in the bag. The ACOS recommends students who have access to lockers store heavy items in it during the day, and only take the essentials to class.
When putting their backpack on, make sure he or she is lifting from the knees, not bending at the back.
Finally, if your kiddo is convinced he or she needs to bring everything but the kitchen sink, find a bag with wheels.
If your child is complaining of back pain despite wearing their backpack properly, bring it up with the pediatrician at their annual visit. The doctor might suggest a visit to sports medicine or the orthopaedic clinic.