Don't forget the back in 'back to school'

Published Aug. 4, 2009
By Maj. Edward Goodnite
81st Surgical Operations Squadron

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Kids are back to school this week, and the one thing they can start learning immediately is how to take care of their backs.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that 7,300 backpack-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency rooms in 2006.

Children put a lot of weight on their spines when they carry backpacks. If carried incorrectly or with too much weight, a backpack can lead to the beginnings of lifelong back pain.

Why is a good backpack important?

A single strap backpack or carrying a two-strap bag on one shoulder, even if properly weighted, can cause nerve pressure through the neck and shoulder region. Using two straps is a must.

Children's bodies are growing and developing. Carrying excessive backpack weight can lead to the development of poor postural habits because the child is compensating for the weight they carry on their back. Children shouldn't carry more than 10 to 15 of their body weight in their backpacks.

When selecting a backpack, Keesler's physical therapy, occupational therapy and chiropractic clinic professionals recommend:

Size -- never longer or wider than the child's torso. It shouldn't hang more than 4 inches below the waist line. Bigger is not better -- carrying more means a heavier load.

Straps -- two padded and adjustable shoulder straps.

Back -- padded, especially where the backpack sits on the torso.

Waist belt -- when fastened, helps shift the load weight from the back and shoulders to the torso and legs.

Compartments -- having compartments and pockets prevents load shifts and more evenly distributes weight. Heaviest items should be packed closest to the body.

Don’t forget the back in ‘back to school’