One less back (pack) ache!

By Tara Liddle, PT, DPT 

     Cara Yochai, PT, DPT 

It’s a confusing time, but we’re here to help you in the backpack department. 

We were all students at one time or another. We understand the need for backpacks. 

There are both positives and negatives when it comes to using a backpack. 

Positives when worn correctly: 

·      Good weight distribution 

·      Comfort 

Negatives when worn incorrectly: 

·      Neck pain 

·      Upper back pain 

·      Shoulder pain 

·      Headaches 

·      Low back pain 

Things to keep in mind when organizing your child’s backpack: 

·      Kids should never carry more than 10% of their body weight in their backpack 

·      A backpack should be worn with both straps 

·      Ideally, the front weight strap should be worn to transfer weight from shoulders to hips 

·      Heaviest items should rest against the back

Often times, children are encouraged to use pulled wheel backpacks 

·       Be aware, that when doing so to avoid over-rotating the spine 

Have a safe school year!