Backpacks are a perfect way to carry school supplies, but if they are worn incorrectly or stuffed to the brim, they can lead to discomfort and soreness for some students.
And all the things students stuff into their backpacks -- from binders and notebooks to paper and pencils -- can make the school day feel a little heavy.
“Backpacks, as long as they’re used properly, they should never cause any sort of pain or discomfort,” said Dr. Caroline Weingart with Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Weingart said that when backpacks aren’t properly used, they can lead to neck, shoulder or back pain.
The first way to prevent that is by choosing the right backpack.
Weingart said it should have two wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. A waist or chest strap can also help with heavy loads.
Next, pack it properly.
“The heaviest items should be packed closest to the back, and then the more lighter items toward the outside of the back. That helps the weight to be distributed in a way that it’s easiest for the child to carry,” Weingart said.
Weingart said the backpack should never be heavier than 15% of the child’s body weight.
So, for example, a 100-pound child shouldn’t be carrying a bag that weighs more than 15 pounds.
And finally, focus on how your child is carrying their backpack.
“Make sure that they’re using both straps and not just one,” Weingart said.
Weingart said that children shouldn’t be hunched over while carrying their backpacks. If they’re leaning forward to carry it, that might be a sign that it’s too heavy.
Rolling backpacks may also help carry heavy loads.