Are Backpacks Too Heavy?

Are Backpacks Too Heavy?

Even though we are in the age of technology and most of the information that our children need can be found on the computer, it is a wonder why our kids still walk around with extremely heavy backpacks.  My advice to you is don’t wait until your child complains of back pain to notice their backpacks are too heavy.  Pay attention to their posture while they have their backpack on, and keep an eye of all of the things that get loaded into the backpack.

Experts recommend that children do not have more than 10-15% of their body weight loaded into their backpacks.  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commision, nearly 14,000 kids between 5-18 years old were treated in hospitals or doctor’s offices for backpack related injuries.

Here are some recommended tips for backpack safety:

  • Always use both shoulder straps to keep the weight better distributed
  • Tighten the straps and use the waist strap if there is one
  • Remove items if they are too heavy
  • Place heavier items closest to the back

If your child is experiencing back pain, and you live in Mooresville, NC, please give our office a call to schedule a free consultation.  It is better to take care of the problem at an early age, then to suffer from it at a later date.

Dr Spencer Charlet
Chiropractor in Mooresville, NC
704-663-7625