Top Myths About Backpacks and Children

Your children have to go through a lot in their schools. However, back pain due to carrying a heavy backpack should never be a concern for them. As parents, you can help your kids to make some easy adjustments and tweaks so that they can wear their backpacks in a safe manner. There are also plenty of myths associated with backpack and back pain.

Myth 1: Your child will tell you the moment he/she feels that the backpack is too bulky/heavy

Though your kids are strong and don't complain about the heaviness of their backpacks, it is still important for you to review their backpacks from time to time. There is a possibility for your kid to sustain pain from his or her backpack and yet not expressing it, the pain could be too mild. It is also possible that your child or you do not feel that the onus lies with the backpack. The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated that your kid's backpack should have a weight of just 10 to 20 percent of his or her body weight.

Myth 2: Your child should not carry backpacks

Many parents tend to overreact as they want to completely do away with backpacks for their school going children. However, it is imperative to note here in this context that the backs of human beings are designed for physical activity and movement. If your children stay active and give light work to their backs, it is good for their body's health.

Myth 3: Bulky school backpacks may lead to scoliosis in children

Scoliosis is an abnormal condition in the spinal cord due to a cause hitherto unknown. The condition leads to a portion of the spine getting curved horizontally and over-rotated. Scoliosis was initially observed and detected in adolescents. Present researches and studies do not agree with the theory that when your child carries a heavy backpack, it can change the structure of your kid's growing spine.

But carrying a bulky school backpack may overload the back of your kids leading to stressing joints, discs, ligaments, and muscles as their spines struggle to somehow compensate. A heavy backpack may result in straining muscles or other injuries causing pain in their neck, shoulder or back in the long run. A heavy backpack can result in changes in body postures due to too much of leaning forward and muscle imbalances in the long run.

Tips to help children wear their backpacks safely:

· Purchase a small backpack - When the backpack is large, a child may feel more encouraged to stuff in excess of things. A smaller backpack will have just adequate space to fit what they need.

· They should use both straps - Ensure that they do not put the backpack over a single shoulder.

· Observe your kid - In case you find that your kid is struggling to wear his or her backpack or has to bend forward while wearing it, it is an indication that the backpack is overloaded and heavy.

Our Providers and Physicians at Phoenix Family Medical Clinic treat and provide care for people/children suffering from back pain.

• Prev
• Next