School is around the corner and it’s important for children and parents to understand proper backpack fit to ensure healthy backs during the school year. Children have growing muscles and joints and are at high risk of injury if worn improperly.

Injury can occur when carrying a heavy load combined with poor posture such as arching the back, using one strap or leaning to one side. Carrying a heavy load for prolonged periods of time can cause excessive soft tissue strain and fatigue, leaving the back more vulnerable to injury.

Heavier loads also increase stress placed on the neck and shoulders, which can result in pain, potential numbness and/or tingling. When worn correctly, the backpack is supported by back and abdominal muscles to stabilize and hold the body in proper postural alignment.

Sports Physical Therapy Kirkland recommends a few safety tips to help with these health risks.

Kids should wear both straps. This evenly distributes the weight of the backpack, reducing pressure from the shoulders and chest.

Make sure the backpack really fits by paying attention to the way the backpack is positioned on the back. Shoulder straps should fit comfortably for shoulders and underarms, allowing for arm mobility. The bottom of the backpack should sit at the contour of the lower back, positioned evenly between shoulders.

Look for a padded back to reduce pressure. Also look for a waist belt to aid in evenly distributing the load to the pelvis and sides and bottom compression straps that tighten to compress and stabilize the weight.

Parents should be aware of signs indicating their child’s backpack is too heavy. Some examples include low or upper back pain, neck pain or numbness/tingling in the arms.

SPT Kirkland is dedicated to providing superior physical therapy for the whole family and want to help protect your children from future preventative injuries.

If you are looking to improve the quality of life by overcoming pain, medications, or stress for you or a loved one call SPT Kirkland at (425) 823-1389 to schedule a complimentary injury assessment with us.

Read more at www.apta.org/Me dia/Releases/Consumer/2009/4/14/