Backpack Safety

Now that everyone is headed back to school, be sure your children are not carrying loads that are too heavy for them. Check their backpacks daily and ask them how they are feeling (not to mention it helps to clean out all the old food and weird items kids stash away in there).

Backpack safety is very important so that kids won't hurt their backs, which can contribute to long-term health and pain problems. Here are some tips from American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons to help your children manage their heavy loads a lot better:

1. Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.


2. Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.


3. Pack light. The backpack should never weigh more than 20 percent of the student's total body weight.


4. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.


5. Stop often at school lockers and remove items you don't need, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.


6. Bend using both knees, when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting a heavy backpack.


7. Learn back-strengthening exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack.