Backpacks & Back Pain: What Every Parent Should Know

Happy Friday PT Pulse Readers,

As students gear up for another school year, one essential item on the back-to-school checklist can often be overlooked—the weight of their backpacks. This week, we focus on how carrying heavy backpacks can lead to back pain and what steps you can take to help your child avoid it.

This Week’s Insight:

1?? Understanding the Impact:

Carrying a heavy backpack can alter your child’s posture, walking speed, and step length, leading to potential neck and back pain. These changes can start when the backpack weighs just 10% of your child's body weight. To keep your student pain-free, experts recommend that backpacks should not exceed 15% of their body weight.

2?? Tips for a Lighter Load:

While you can’t always control what your child needs to carry, there are several strategies you can implement to make their load more manageable. For example, planning ahead by removing unnecessary items each night can make a significant difference. Also, encourage your child to use their locker during the day to avoid carrying extra weight around school.

3?? Proper Backpack Use:

Ensure your child is packing their backpack correctly by placing heavier items closer to their back and lighter items further away. It’s also crucial to wear the backpack right—using both shoulder straps and any available chest or hip straps. This helps distribute the weight evenly and reduces the strain on their back.

When to Seek Help:

If your child starts experiencing pain in their back or neck, don’t hesitate to consult a physical therapist. Our professionals can assess the situation and provide guidance to alleviate the pain and prevent future issues.

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“I have received great treatment for the therapists here. I highly recommend, there is great service and I have had great results with recovering from injuries.”

To Health and Happiness,

Your PT Pulse Team

P.S. If our tips on backpack safety have been helpful, please share our newsletter with other parents in your network to spread the word!