Backpack Tips

BACK TO SCHOOL TIME: BACKPACK SAFETY

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the Paediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America warn that wearing a backpack that is too heavy may cause injury. They provide the following tips:

• Carry no more than 15-20 percent of their body weight.
• Use both shoulder straps and adjust them to keep the load close to the back.
• Remove items if the backpack is too heavy and pack the heaviest things low and in the center.
• If possible, leave books at home or school instead of carrying them back and forth.

When choosing a backpack, look for one that is appropriate for the size of your child. In addition, look for some of the following features:

• Wide, padded shoulder straps
• Two shoulder straps (helps distribute weight)
• Padded back
• Waist strap
• Lightweight backpack
• Rolling backpack

The correct use of both of the wide, well-padded shoulder straps will help distribute the weight of the backpack.