Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

Can you believe that another school year is right around the corner? If you’ve received your child’s back to school list and are checking items off as you prepare for the new school year, don’t overlook the importance of choosing a backpack that is protective of your child’s spine. Backpacks that don’t fit correctly, that are loaded too heavily or that can’t easily be seen can all put your child’s back at risk of injury, and that’s something no parent wants to deal with during the school year. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the things you’ll want to keep in mind when picking out a new backpack for your child this school year.

Backpacks And Your Child’s Spine Health

Backpacks aren’t a significant risk to your child’s health, but at the same time, they’ll be carrying their backpack to and from school most days of the week, and all this stress can take a toll on their spine if it’s not right for their body. Here’s what we recommend you keep in mind when you’re shopping for a new backpack with your son or daughter.

1. Lightweight and Supportive– If your child’s backpack is already pretty heavy before you put any supplies in it, it may not be the right fit for them. Most backpacks that you find in the back to school section of the store will be lightweight, so stick to these models instead of something designed for hiking or camping. You’ll also want to ensure it has two supportive straps that can be adjusted to their specific height so that the weight of the backpack is held in the right position.
2. Double Straps– We mentioned finding a backpack with two supportive straps in the above section, but we wanted to reiterate the importance of finding a backpack that has two straps because this prevents one side from being overloaded. Some models have only one strap, and that leads to an asymmetrical stress pattern across your shoulder and spine. Make sure that you grab a two-strap model and that your child wears both straps when carrying their backpack.
3. Avoid Wheels– You may think that you’re doing your child a favor by buying a backpack with wheels and a handle for an additional carrying option, but oftentimes this forces the child to regularly lift the backpack over steps or entryways, which places additional strain on the arm, shoulder and spine. Straps allow for easier transport and healthier stress distribution, so steer away from backpacks that seem appealing because they have wheels.
4. Ensure It Fits– When your kid tries on a backpack or wears it for the first day of school, make sure the straps are adjusted accordingly. Heavier items inside the backpack should be placed closer to the body, and the straps should be adjusted so that the bottom of the backpack sits a few inches above your child’s waist. It should not be hanging over their butt, as this will put additional stain on their lower back.
5. Make It Visible– Finally, make sure that your child chooses a backpack that is visible to drivers. Bright colors are great, but if your child prefers more neutral tones, ask them to help decorate their backpack with a couple reflective stickers. Make your child easy to be seen by any and all behind the wheel. It’ll also make it easier for your child to find their backpack amongst the class!

We want your child to have a great school year, and that starts by picking the right backpack that is protective of their spine health. For more information about choosing the right backpack for your growing child, pick up the phone and call the team at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

Comments are closed.