Backpacks can literally make going back to school a “pain in the neck”.

Many of the issues that we see in adulthood can stem from early poor backpack wearing as the spine is developing.  It is important to correctly wear and distribute the weight appropriately in your backpack.

According to an international study, daily backpack carrying is a frequent cause of discomfort for school children. School backpacks were felt to be heavy by 79.1% of children, to cause fatigue by 65.7%, and to cause back pain by 46.1%¹

Chiropractic care has been proven to be effective, and can restore correct function of the spine and relieve symptoms associated with the carrying of heavy backpacks.

In accordance with the Chiropractic Association of Australia some tips for carrying of heavy backpacks:

1. Backpacks should be ideally no heavier than 10% of a student’s weight when packed.
2. Make sure the backpack is sturdy and appropriately sized – no wider than the student’s chest
3. Put comfort and fit at the top of the priority list, rather than good looks
4. Choose a backpack with broad, padded shoulder straps
5. Use both shoulder straps – never sling the pack over one shoulder
6. Use waist straps attached – they are there for a good reason
7. Don’t wear the backpack any lower than the hollow of the lower back
8. Don’t overload the backpack – use school lockers and plan homework well in advance
9. Place all heavy items at the base of the pack, close to the spine, for a better distribution of the weight

1. Negrini, S., & Carabalona, R (2002). Backpacks on! Schoolchildren’s Perceptions of Load, Associations with Back Pain and Factors Determing the Load. Spine, 27(2), 187-195.

regards,

Dr Sarah MacNeil

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