FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
North American Spine SocietyCONTACT: NASS
(708) 588-8080
Kathleen Henson
(630) 933-9477
More than 40 million students head off to class each day with backpacks slung over their shoulders. About 20 million of those students are carrying twice the recommended weight on the back which can lead to stress injuries and spinal pain that can worsen with age.
To raise awareness of this issue, The North American Spine Society came up with the ABC’s of Backpacking – tips for preventing backpack injuries.
Allow wheels – 31.7 percent of those surveyed recommend using a backpack on wheels. This type of back pack is helpful if a child is already symptomatic or if parents anticipate that he/she will be carrying loads more than 25 lbs.
Back to basics – 20.8 percent of the spine specialists polled recommend the traditional style backpack. If you opt for this style, make sure the pack has two thick, padded straps along with a waist strap for added lumbar support.
Comfort counts – 30.7 percent of NASS members recommend that parents don’t buy the first back pack they see. It’s important to make sure the backpack feels comfortable to the child and the straps can be adjusted for a tight fit.
Don’t overload – Whatever backpack style parents choose for their children, it’s important to remember that what’s inside that really counts! In fact, 64 percent of those surveyed claim that overloading the pack is the number one way children and teens improperly use their backpacks. All of the doctors surveyed agreed that the size of the pack should be proportionate to the child, NOT to the size of the items he will be carrying.
Everything is too much – Pack only what you need! NASS members recommend that the pack should weigh no more than 10-15 percent of the child’s body weight.
Fit your frame – Always use both straps and adjust them snugly on your shoulders.
Get organized – Organize the pack so the heavy items are closest to your back. Use smaller compartments to help store loose items and distribute the weight evenly.
Heavy hurts! – Don’t carry more than you can handle. Make frequent stops to unload the pack. Encourage your child not to carry all the books they will need for the day.
For more information on backpack injury prevention, other spine related topics or to schedule an interview with a NASS spine care expert in your area, please contact NASS at info@spine.org or call (708) 588-8080.
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