 Backpack
Safety
What do
I need to know about backpack safety?
Backpacks are a popular and
practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When
used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school
day. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the
body's strongest muscles.
However backpacks that
are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can cause problems for children and teenagers.
Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints. This can lead to severe
back, neck and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems. Share these guidelines
to help your family use backpacks safely.
Choose the right backpack.
Look for the following:
- Wide, padded shoulder
straps — Narrow straps can dig into shoulders. This can cause pain
and restrict circulation.
- Two shoulder straps
— Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot
distribute weight evenly.
- Padded back —
A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and
increases comfort.
- Waist strap —
A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly.
- Lightweight backpack
— The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load.
- Rolling backpack
— This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote
a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs.
They may be difficult to roll in snow.
To prevent injury when using
a backpack, do the following:
- Always use both shoulder
straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Wearing
a backpack on one shoulder may increase curvature of the spine.
- Tighten the straps
so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two
inches above the waist.
- Pack light. The
backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student's total
body weight.
- Organize the backpack
to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center
of the back.
- Stop often at school
lockers, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.
- Bend using both knees,
when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting
a heavy backpack.
- Learn back-strengthening
exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack.
- Ask your pediatrician
for advice.
Parents also can help in the
following ways:
- Encourage your child
or teenager to tell you about pain or discomfort that may be caused by
a heavy backpack. Do not ignore any back pain in a child or teenager. Ask
your pediatrician for advice.
- Talk to the school
about lightening the load. Be sure the school allows students to stop at their
lockers throughout the day. Team up with other parents to encourage changes.
- Consider buying a
second set of textbooks for your student to keep at home.
Published
online: 9/07
Copyright ©
2003 American Academy of Pediatrics
Parents can find more information
on this topic in Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5.
To order a copy of this book visit the AAP
Bookstore.
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The information contained
in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care
and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your
pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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