As you buy school supplies this year, your kids will no doubt have strong opinions on which backpacks are the most appealing and fashionable. But not all backpacks are equally safe for a child’s growing body.

Here are guidelines to help steer your child toward a backpack they’ll love that will also go easy on their back and spine. Select backpacks that have the following characteristics:

• Lightweight but strong
  
  
• Two wide, padded shoulder straps (not just one strap)
  
  
• A padded back to protect against sharp objects inside the bag
  
  
• A waist and chest strap to help keep the bag stable
  
  
• Appropriate size (isn't wider than your child's torso or hanging more than 4 inches below the waist)

The good news is that with so many schools issuing a laptop to each child, more assignments are delivered electronically, cutting down on the number of textbooks and notebooks your child must carry.

But your child may be tempted to overload their backpack with personal items, so it’s important to talk about how to safely use it. Help them adjust their backpack and teach them to:

• Pack light. Weigh the backpack when it’s full and make sure it’s no more than 5-10% of your child’s body weight.
  
  
• Organize their backpack, placing heavy items in the center.
  
  
• Only carry what’s needed. Your child should use their locker or desk so that they aren’t carrying everything in their backpack all day.
  
  
• Avoid twisting too much when putting on a backpack.
  
  
• Use both shoulder straps. This evenly distributes the weight and promotes good posture. Remind your child not to sling both straps over one shoulder.
  
  
• Place the backpack evenly in the middle of the back. It should sit about 2 inches above the waist.
  
  
• Tighten and loosen straps as needed. The straps should be snug while wearing the pack. Your child can loosen the straps before taking their backpack off – remembering to tighten them the next time they wear it.

If your child’s backpack is uncomfortable, help them determine what might be wrong. If your child experiences pain or numbness from carrying a backpack, see if they can lighten the load. If the pain continues, talk to your child’s healthcare provider.

Looking for a Provider?

If you are looking for a primary care provider, Aultman Medical Group Primary Care has more than 80 providers ready to take care of you and your family. Many of our offices are accepting new patients – and more than likely, we have a location in your community.

Visit aultman.org/NewDoc to find a provider in your area who is accepting new patients, or call the new patient hotline at 330-433-1264 for assistance with scheduling your appointment.

Source: The StayWell Company, LLC