Back To School – How to Choose the Best Back Pack for your child
Many students carry backpacks overloaded or improperly fitted, resulting in injuries including neck pain, muscle spasms, tingling hands, headaches & lower back pain. This pain may result in increasing damage to posture & development of the spine.
As parents there are important issues you need to know in order to prevent backpack injury & promote spinal health.
When choosing a new backpack, ergonomically designed features that enhance safety & comfort are vital.
Here are some tips to choose the best pack for your child:
- A padded back minimises direct pressure on the spine.
- Wide padded shoulder straps which will not restrict circulation to the arms avoiding numbness & tingling.
- Reflective material enhances visibility.
- Lightweight backpack- up to 15% of child’s body weight when full.
- Multiple compartments better distribute weight in the backpack.
- Load heaviest items closest to the spine.
- Pack only necessary items needed for that school day.
- If backpack is too heavy, consider using a case on wheels.
- Arrange books & materials securely.
- Wear both straps: By wearing 2 shoulder straps, the weight of the backpack is better distributed, & a well-aligned symmetrical posture is better aided.
It is extremely important to encourage your child or teenager to tell you about pain or discomfort that may be caused by a heavy backpack. Never ignore any back pain!!
Also encourage physical activity- Children who are active have better muscle flexibility & strength, which makes it easier to carry a backpack!
To learn more on how to further improve your health, book a consultation with Dr Rachel Murphy (Osteopath, Clinical Nutritionist) at the Family Wellness Group .
Call 9898 0222 or book online at https://cwg-eh.cliniko.com/bookings#service

Dr Rachel Murphy
In clinical practice, I continue to pursue passion for treating infants and children as well as pregnancy care, including pre and postnatal support. I have a strong belief that environment plays a crucial role in health and well being, and therefore treatment management must also include advice on exercise and nutrition, ergonomics, stretching, rehabilitation and lifestyle modification.
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