IS IT THAT TIME AGAIN ALREADY? BACK TO SCHOOL IN PERSON!
Check out this video for parents on backpack safety: https://www.moveforwardpt.com/patientresources/videolibrary/ detail/parents-backpack-safety-kids Cute kids demonstrating
Does your back-to-school shopping list include a backpack? Here are some safety tips when it comes to wearing a backpack.
the wrong way to wear a backpack. Thanks to Ryann’s kids, Amelia and Joseph, for these demonstrations. Don’t forget teens! Thanks to Jan’s grandkids for demonstrating typical placement of a backpack.
Too big, one strap, and resting below lower back
Wear both straps. Using one strap causes one side of the body to bear the weight. Using both straps helps even the load and reduce the risk of injury and muscle imbalance. Wear the backpack over the strongest mid-back muscles. Pay attention to the position of the backpack. It should not extend below the lower back but instead sit evenly in the middle of the back. The straps should be loose enough for the child to get the pack on and off easily and allow arms to move freely. Lighten the load. For children, the weight of the back pack should not exceed 10%–15% of the child’s body weight. Pack only what is needed for the day. Organize the contents so the heaviest items are closest to the back and bottom of the pack.
One strap and resting below lower back
How a Physical Therapist Can Help (MoveForwardPT.com) A physical therapist can help you choose a proper backpack and fit it specifically to your child. Children come in all shapes and sizes, and some have physical limitations that require special adaptations. Additionally, a physical therapist can help improve posture problems, correct muscle imbalances, and treat pain resulting from improper backpack use. Physical therapists can also design individualized fitness programs to help children get strong and stay strong — and carry their own loads!
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