How important is this topic of backpack safety? The American Pediatric Association recommends that students carry no more than 15% of their body weight in their backpacks but 55% of students do carry more than 15%. Approximately 21,000 emergency room visits each year can be attributed to book bags and back carriers. Did you know that 60% of children's orthopedic visits for back and shoulder pain are the result of carrying too heavy a backpack? Researchers from the University of Michigan estimate that up to 60% of children will experience pain by the time they reach 18 years old. Much of this low back pain will come from heavy backpacks. An article in a journal called Spine showed that heavy backpacks alter the discs between the bones in the spine, which may set children up for arthritis and disc problems later in life.

Children who wear heavy backpacks and wear them improperly may experience abnormal postures which could set them up for a lifetime of back problems. I see children all the time that have forward head posture, rounded shoulders, shoulder tilts, and head tilts. All of these bad postures can come from heavy and improperly worn backpacks.

The following list has suggestions on how to prevent your children from developing health problems from backpacks:

a.. Decrease any unnecessary weight in the bags like toys, games, lunch boxes, etc.
b.. Make sure the backpacks do not affect their normal posture
c.. Talk to teachers about decreasing the amount of homework that requires heavy books.
d.. Encourage schools to allow more time to exchange books between classes.
e.. Support schools in their challenge to get publishers to lighten the books. Some schools are buying two sets of the heavier books (so the kids can keep one at home).
f.. Stagger exams more and photocopy assignments.
g.. Do not put backpacks on only one shoulder.
h.. Put the straps on snugly, but not too tight; and the straps around the waist do help.
i.. Avoid bags on wheels because they still put stress on your child's posture.
j.. Encourage regular stretching and exercise to strengthen the back and neck.
k.. Ask you chiropractor to check the child with their backpack on.

I have seen children with serious problems due to backpacks. I have also seen x-rays on some teenagers that have spines worse than their parents. Many kids carry almost 30 pounds in their backpacks which can have a serious effect on their posture, spine, and health. Please have you child checked with or without their backpack to see the effect on their spine.

Lastly, we have developed a relationship with a company who designed a backpack with air pockets to lessen the stress on your child's back. We can order these for you, if you call or stop by the office. They run almost $50, but are well worth it to protect your child from serious problems.