It is that time of the year again: The leaves are not yet changing color and the sun still shines with full force, and yet children and teenagers must begin preparing for their return to school. Going back to school means purchasing new schoolbooks and supplies, as well as a backpack to carry them. This is where backpack safety comes in.
Backpack Injury Statistics
The Consumer Product Safety Commission finds that over 7,000 annual emergency room visits have a direct correlation to heavy backpacks. Additionally, over 14,000 children also are treated backpack-related injuries every year.
A heavy or incorrectly worn backpack is one of the leading causes of strain- and overuse-related injuries in children and teenagers: including neck, back and shoulder pain, as well as severe sprains in the related joints and muscles. In fact, 25% of students suffer from back pain for 15 or more days during the school year! This also raises their risk of developing scoliosis, i.e., poor posture.
Which Backpack is Right For My Child?
Fortunately, backpack injuries are entirely preventable if parents follow these simple guidelines for choosing the correct backpack for their children:
- A backpack should be lightweight to minimize the load a child will carry. One made from a sturdy canvas is best.
- The top of the backpack should be about 1.5 to 2 inches below the shoulders.
- The bottom should be no more than 4 inches below the waistline.
- The backpack should not be wider than the child’s body.
- Straps should be wide and well-padded to distribute the weight of the backpack equally across a child’s strongest muscles.
- Both straps must be worn at all times to keep the backpack securely against a child’s back. A padded back is recommended for additional comfort.
- If the backpack has a hip belt, encourage your child to wear it to transfer weight onto the hips. The belt should fit snugly around the hips when tightened.
- A full backpack should weigh no more than 15% of a child’s weight.
There are many things that parents can do as an additional precaution against backpack injuries. It is important to talk to your child about distributing the load property, such as placing heavier items at the bottom or against the back, and encouraging them to keep their backpack free of unnecessary items. Opting for a rolling backpack may be a viable option for preventing potential injuries, but remember to check the school’s policies to ensure that rolling backpacks are allowed.