Use the following guidelines to prevent unnecessary pain
that the wrong backpack can cause for students:
- HOW TO PICK A BACKPACK:
o No larger than your child’s torso (shoulders to hips)
o Made of lightweight material
o Better backpacks typically are more expensive (but they are cheaper than a set of x-rays)
o Choose the smallest size that will get the job done
o Bigger isn’t always better, they’ll just put more in there
o Multiple compartments, symmetrically-placed
o Wide, adjustable shoulder straps and a waist strap
o Sufficient padding in the back of the backpack
- HOW TO WEAR A BACKPACK:
o Pack should weigh less than 10% of your child’s body weight
o Use both straps, never hang it over one shoulder
o The pack should fit firmly against the back with no gaps visible
o Backpack should not hang 3 inches below the waist or above the shoulders
o Only put in items your child needs that day
o Place the heaviest items closest to their back
- WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR:
o Back or neck pain
o Headaches
o Pain in or between the shoulders
o Numbness/tingling in arms or hands
o They struggle to take pack on and off
o Standing/sitting with poor posture
If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, give me a call. I will work with you to diagnose and treat your symptoms. In addition, I can offer exercises to help strengthen your posture and get you back on track to academic excellence!
