How heavy is that backpack?

A vast majority of kids wear backpacks every day that weigh 15 lbs. or more. That’s a heavybackpack! Over time, the stress of the load can result in back pain, a rounding of the shouldersand postural changes. The spinal compression caused by heavy backpacks often has kidsleaning forward to compensate, which begins a vicious cycle of postural issues, compensationand pain.

•   Up to 30% of kids may suffer from back pain due to carrying a heavy backpack.
•   Limiting the total weight of the backpack to less than 10% of your child’s body weight is
• recommended.
•   Instruct your child to wear their backpack with both shoulder straps fit snugly, so the
• backpack isn’t carried below the waistline.
• Next Steps:
• Kids typically choose their backpack based on what makes them look cool. We recommendtaking a second look and making sure the straps are wide and padded, the size is appropriate(and not too big) and that it has compartments to help distribute the load. If your child has pain,numbness, or tingling, give us a call. We would be happy to help get them back on track!
• Science Source:
• Backpack weight and back pain reduction: effect of an intervention in adolescents. PediatricResearch 2018

‍