Stand outside any elementary school after the textbooks are dispersed and see what unfolds. After the bell rings students run out looking like they’re auditioning for movie parts as movers with a grand pianos strapped to their backs.
While books usually help children succeed, they can cause harm when backpacks bulge to the point of bursting.
Jill Zabreski, M.P.T of NovaCare Rehabilitation wants parents to be aware of the signs their child’s backpack may be too heavy.
‘If they have a change in posture and struggle, it’s probably a bit heavy. Or if they’re slouched forward or struggling to stand up,? said Zabreski.
While Zabreski has not seen cases of back trouble due only to heavy backpacks, she says excessive weight can put further strain on existing problems like scoliosis.
Zabreski thinks monitoring things such as backpack weight promotes good health habits while developing good body mechanics and posture.
‘When a child has pain I listen. Kids should not have pain. If they’re having back pain, don’t wait long to see a physician,? said Zabreski.

How to Use a Backpack
Selecting a pack:
? Choose a pack that is appropriate to the child’s size and age.
? Select a backpack with well-padded shoulder straps ? the neck and shoulders are rich in blood vessels and nerves that when constricted can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms and hands.
? Choose a pack with a waist belt that can be fastened for extra support and can also help transfer weight from shoulders to the body’s trunk and hips.
Wearing a pack:
? Always wear both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly. Wearing a pack over one shoulder can cause leaning to one side and curve the spine.
? Adjust shoulder straps so the pack fits snug to the child’s back. The pack should never rest more than four inches below the child’s waistline.
Loading a pack:
? Never allow a child to carry more than 15 percent of his/her body weight. For example: a child who weighs 100 pounds should not carry a school backpack that weighs more than 15 pounds.
? Load the heaviest items closest to the child’s back.
(Chart provided by NovaCare Rehabilitation, Clarkston)