Kids and Backpacks


American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons,
(AAOS)

Back to school should not mean backaches and pains, but for kids who use backpacks, it could mean a visit to the physician's office. In fact, overloaded backpacks have received a lot of attention in schools. Everyone from parents to school administration staffs have started to voice concern about their use.

More than 13,260 injuries related to backpacks were treated at hospital emergency rooms, doctor's offices and clinics in the year 2000, according to estimates and projections of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The extra stress placed on the spine and shoulder from the heavy loads that children carry in their backpacks is causing muscle fatigue and strain. Excessive weight in backpacks could cause some children to develop bad habits early in life like poor posture or excessive slouching.

As part of its Prevent Injuries America!™ national injury prevention campaign, the Academy suggests the following guidelines:


  • Use a hip strap for heavier weights.

  • Use a backpack with padded, wide straps and a padded back.

  • Use both of the backpack's straps, firmly tightened, to hold the pack two inches above your waist.

  • Engage in exercises to condition your back muscles. Ask an orthopaedic surgeon for advice.

  • Use the correct lifting techniques. Remember, bend with both knees when picking up a heavy backpack.

  • Place the heaviest items close to your back.

  • Neatly pack your backpack, and try to keep items in place.

  • Try to make frequent trips to your locker, between classes, to replace books.

  • Consider purchasing a backpack with wheels.

  • Purchase a second set of books for home.

posted 10/1/2002

Your Orthopaedic Connection, Patient Education Web Site of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, © 2002