Backpack safety for kids

Is your kid packing a load?

Many children and teenagers carry backpacks during the school year for schoolbooks and other supplies. “When used correctly, backpacks are the most efficient way to carry a load and distribute the weight among some of the body’s strongest muscles,” says Eric Wall, director of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s Orthopaedic Surgery Division.

In May 2002, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission reported backpack related injuries sent almost 6000 students each year to emergency rooms. The American Academy of Orthopedics stated that backpack injury is a significant problem for children. A 2000 US Consumer Product Safety Commission estimate states that, when backpacks are used incorrectly, more than 13,260 injuries in children 5 to 18 years old are treated at hospital ERs, doctor’s offices and clinics.

The Division of Orthopedic Surgery at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center recommends these simple guidelines to prevent any unnecessary injuries to your child throughout the school year…

• When choosing the right backpack look for one that is lightweight, has two wide and padded shoulder straps, a cushioned back, and waist straps. A rolling backpack is another good option (assuming your child’s school permits their use) if your child has to carry a very heavy load, but school terrain is much more challenging to negotiate with wheels than your average airport.
• Always encourage your child to use both shoulder straps and make sure the straps are tight.
• Limit your child’s backpack to no more than 15-20% of his/her body weight.
• Organize your child’s supplies and books so that the heaviest items are closest to the center of his/her back and all compartments are used.
• Persuade your child to stop at his/her locker often so they’re not carrying all of their books throughout the day.
• When wearing or lifting a heavy backpack, remind your child to bend using both knees.
• Do not leave backpack on floor where others can trip over it, and do not swing pack around where it may hit other people.
• Back and shoulder discomfort is common with heavy backpack use. If your child complains of persistent back pain, consult with your child’s pediatrician.

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