N E W S L E T T E R
BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS: BACKPACK SAFET Y Aching backs and shoulders? Tingling arms? Weakened muscles? Stooped posture? Does your child have these symptoms after wearing a heavy school backpack? Carrying too much weight in a backpack or wearing it the wrong way can lead to pain and strain. Parents can take steps to help children load and wear backpacks the correct way to avoid health problems. Loading the backpack: • A child’s backpack should weigh no more than about 10% of his or her body weight. This means a student weighing 100 pounds shouldn’t wear a loaded school backpack heavier than about 10 pounds.
Wearing the backpack: • Distribute weight evenly by using both straps. Wearing a backpack slung over one shoulder can cause a child to lean to one side, curving the spine and causing pain or discomfort. • Select a backpack with well-padded shoulder straps. Shoulders and necks have many blood vessels and nerves that can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms, and hands when too much pressure is applied. • Adjust the shoulder straps so that the backpack fits snugly on the child’s back. A backpack that hangs loosely from the back can pull the child backwards and strain muscles.
• Load heaviest items closest to the child’s back (the back of the backpack).
• Wear the waist belt if the backpack has one. This helps distribute the backpack’s weight more evenly.
• Arrange books and materials so they won’t slide around in the backpack.
• The bottom of the backpack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never rest more than four inches below the child’s waistline. • School backpacks come in different sizes for different ages. Choose the right size backpack for your child as well as one with enough room for necessary school items.
• Check what your child carries to school and brings home. Make sure the items are necessary for the day’s activities.
• If the backpack is too heavy or tightly packed, your child can hand carry a book or other item outside the backpack.
• Only put items in your backpack that you need for the day.
• If the backpack is too heavy on a regular basis, consider using a book bag on wheels if your child’s school allows it.
Call TODAY to schedule an evaluation with Precision Physical Therapy. 502.479.2552
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