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Guidelines for choosing the proper backpack
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By Staff Report
Updated 12:48 AM Friday, August 20, 2010
Follow these six tips from Dayton Children’s and the American Academy of Pediatrics to help you choose the safest backpack for your children.
Choosing the right backpack
1. Wide, padded shoulder straps — Narrow straps can dig into shoulders. This can cause pain and restrict circulation.
2. Two shoulder straps — Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly.
3. Padded back — A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and increases comfort.
4. Waist strap — A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly.
5. Lightweight backpack — The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load.
6. Rolling backpack — Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs. They may be difficult to roll in snow.
Ways to prevent injury
1. Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. Wearing a backpack on one shoulder may increase curvature of the spine.
2. Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.
3. Pack light. The backpack should ideally weigh less than 10 percent of the student’s total body weight.
4. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.
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