When your child goes back to school, you get a laundry list of supplies to buy for them. Although you may be tempted to get your growing mini-me an aesthetically pleasing backpack, you might want to consider a more practical one for their spinal health. In other words, choosing the wrong backpack could be a pain in the neck, shoulders, or back for the whole school year! Here are some basic questions that can lead you to the right choice to help your student avoid back pain.
How Big Should My Kid’s Backpack Be?
In some instances, more does not equate to better. Although a large backpack can fit in more books and supplies, a smaller one will help you and your child avoid jamming it with excessive items, which minimizes the chances of back pain. Instead, choose a smaller backpack and help your child learn to empty it often to make sure they have only the essentials. The width of the backpack should be around the width of your child’s waist, and it should rest just above the buttocks.
Where Should My Kid’s Backpack Be Positioned?
The size, weight, and position of the backpack matter because it can strain your child’s spine and supportive muscles. When the backpack is too low, it forces all the pressure onto their lower back, which could lead to chronic pain. If your child sits down, and their backpack hits the seat, it is too low, and the straps should be tightened.
How Heavy Should My Kid’s Backpack Be?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, backpacks should not exceed 10 percent of the child’s weight. For example, if your child weighs 60 pounds, their backpack should carry up to 6 pounds at most. A load heavier than this can pull your child backward, causing them to arch forward and negatively impact their posture and spinal health as they develop. This rule of thumb applies to children and adults who wear backpacks.
What Support Should My Kid’s Backpack Provide?
Ideally, your child’s backpack should include several methods of support. For instance, multiple pockets can help distribute the weight a little more evenly to avoid being bottom heavy. This can help avoid pressure on your child’s lower back. Padded straps can offer comfort for their shoulders, and straps that cross the chest and waist can also lighten the load on your child’s back.
Consistently wearing a backpack that is too big, heavy, poorly positioned, and not supportive can set your child up for pain and suffering this school year. As you shop for their school essentials, remember that their backpack can help or harm their spinal health as they develop posture and grow. Making the right selection can help them stand tall, confident, and pain free!
About the Author
Dr. Zinovy Chukhman, who is commonly referred to as Dr. Z, owns and operates AlignRight Chiropractic in Richardson, TX. Unlike many other chiropractors in the field, he is certified in all four levels with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and utilizes multiple treatment methods to achieve results for patients. He also stays informed of the best and latest techniques for optimal therapy. Would you like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Z for your child’s back pain? Just reach out to us online or call 972-907-2800!