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Sep 08
2016

Backpacks are as much as a staple for kids in school as pens and paper.  But choosing the wrong one or using backpacks that are too heavy can trigger back pain for kids.  From elementary school through high school, kids typically lug over-sized backpacks around every week.  

Unfortunately, they can do a lot more than carry books. Backpacks can injure your kids if not worn properly.  It’s important to make sure that you choose the best backpacks for kids to wear in order to prevent back pain and injuries from happening.

How do you choose the best backpacks for kids?

We recommend a few shopping guidelines that will help prevent injury:

• Always look for thick shoulder straps
• The backpack should be the length of the torso, ending two inches below the waist, according to the American Chiropractic Association
• Find a backpack with a waist strap
• Pick a light-weight backpack to minimize the overall weight
• Purchase a backpack with multiple compartments to help distribute weight

Backpack shopping success tip! Want a list of the top picks? The Huffington Post rounded up a few of the best backpacks for kids here

SUFFERING FROM LOWER BACK PAIN?  SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ABOVE & BEYOND PHYSICAL THERAPY TODAY.

Wear It Like A Pro

More important than the type of backpack you choose is how they are worn and what is packed inside that can prevent pain in your children’s backs, neck or shoulders.  Here are a few tips to consider:

• Lighten the load and make sure that its contents are less than 10 percent of their body weight.  For example, if your child weighs 50 pounds, the maximum amount that they should be carrying is five pounds.
• Encourage your kids to leave their heavy books in their locker if possible or carry them in their arms.
• Always pack heavy items at the bottom of the backpack and position them close to the back in order to distribute the weight evenly to avoid putting strain on one area of the spine.
• Kids like to wear their backpacks with one strap slung over one shoulder, but this style can cause pain and strain in the shoulder muscles and back.  Encourage them to use both shoulder straps at all times.  

Although money can be tight when you’re buying school supplies for the year, try not to skimp on quality.  Although popular bargain backpacks may look tempting, investing in the best backpacks for kids that are high-quality can mean avoiding future spinal issues that your child may experience later in life.  

Physical therapy can help to increase strength and flexibility to help lessen your lower back pain.  SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ABOVE & BEYOND PHYSICAL THERAPY to discover the ideal treatment specific to you.