Backpacks That Make the Grade

Backpacks are very convenient for carrying books and supplies, but many are overloaded or improperly worn.  This can put children at risk for spinal injury.

Here are some recommendations for safe backpack use:

• Wear both straps.  This distributes the weight evenly across the back and shoulders.
• Wear the backpack over the mid-back muscles.  These muscles are the strongest.  The size of the backpack should match the size of the child so the backpack rests evenly in the middle of the back.
• Don't overload the backpack.  The load should not be more than 10% of the child's weight.  Therefore, a 75 lb child should only carry 7.5 lbs or less in their backpack.

Here are some signs that your child's backpack is too heavy:

• The child changes their posture when wearing the backpack to accomodate the extra weight.
• The child struggles when putting the backpack on or taking it off.
• The child experiences pain while wearing the backpack.
• The child experiences tingling or numbness or has red marks from wearing the backpack.

Keep these tips in mind when shopping for a new backpack or when observing your child with their current backpack.