Take a look around any school campus and there will be many different styles, colors, and fabrics of backpacks. And while they are very helpful in lugging around books, notebooks, and other school supplies, if they are used incorrectly they can cause strain on the back.
Backpack Injuries
According to the U.S. Product Safety Commission, in 2003 alone there were more than 21,000 injuries related to backpacks in the country. Records from emergency rooms, doctors' offices, and clinics showed that the injuries ranged from contusions, to sprains and strains to the back and shoulder, and fractures.
Warning Signs of Heavy Bookbags
The National Safety Council provides a comprehensive list of warning signs for backpacks that are too heavy.
- A change in posture when the backpack is being worn
- Struggling when putting on or taking off the backpack
- Pain while wearing the backpack
- Tingling or numbness
- Red marks
How to Select the Right Book Tote
When standing in front of the backpacks and dozens of styles fill the racks, knowing which one is the right one can be tricky. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers some suggestions:
- Look for an ergonomically designed backpack. That is a backpack designed with safety and comfort in mind.
- The back should be padded to reduce pressure on the back, shoulders, and under arms.
- Another thing to look for is a waist strap. Waist straps help take the load off the back and distribute some of that weight to the hips and torso.
- Purchase backpacks with two straps. Over the shoulder models may look stylish, but they do not transfer weight properly.
- Look for backpacks with multiple compartments. These areas help keep items secure and distribute the weight.
Carrying School Books Safely
It's not enough to buy the right backpack. It has to be packed and worn correctly to prevent injuries. One of the first things to remember is that the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends a child's backpack shouldn't weigh any more than 15 - 20% of a child's body weight. With that said, here are some guidelines from the National Safety Council for safe backpack use.
- Wear both straps. Many kids will fling the backpack over one shoulder. Doing so can shift the weight to one side and cause muscle spasms and low back pain.
- Position the backpack so it rests evenly in the middle of the back. Make sure the straps are not too loose and the backpack doesn't go below the low back.
- Keep it light. Carry only the items needed for the day. Remove extra articles at night. When packing for the next day, make sure to pack the heavier items like textbooks closest to the center of the back.
- Lift the backpack properly. The Safety Council recommends users bend at the knees and use both legs to lift the backpack. Place one shoulder strap on at a time.
Backpacks are very practical but can create problems if not used correctly. By knowing the warning signs of heavy backpacks, to backpack selection and packing, a few preventive measures today can eliminate a lot of unwanted back pain tomorrow.
Backpack Safety
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