Backpacks are a popular and practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body's strongest muscles.

Backpacks that are too heavy or are worn incorrectly can cause problems for children and teenagers. Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints. This can lead to severe back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as posture problems. These guidelines can help your family use backpacks safely.

Choose the right backpack. Look for the following:

• Wide, padded shoulder straps. Narrow straps can dig into shoulders. This can cause pain and restrict circulation.
• Two shoulder straps. Backpacks with one shoulder strap that runs across the body cannot distribute weight evenly.
• Padded back. A padded back protects against sharp edges on objects inside the pack and increases comfort.
• Waist strap. A waist strap can distribute the weight of a heavy load more evenly.
• Lightweight backpack. The backpack itself should not add much weight to the load.
• Rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks must be carried up stairs.

To prevent injury when using a backpack, do the following:

• lways use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.
• Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.
• Pack light. The backpack should never weigh more than 20 percent of the student's total body weight.
• Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.
• Stop often at school lockers and remove items you don't need, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.
• Bend using both knees, when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting a heavy backpack.
• Learn back-strengthening exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack.

Parents also can help

• Encourage your child or teenager to tell you about pain or discomfort that may be caused by a heavy backpack. Do not ignore any back pain in a child or teenager.
• Talk to the school about lightening the load. Be sure the school allows students to stop at their lockers throughout the day. Team up with other parents to encourage changes.
• Consider buying a second set of textbooks for your student to keep at home.

Useful Links

	Evolution takes another step forward.ChiroWorx
	Learning Curves TM is a standards-based curriculum for teaching elementary school children (3rd, 4th and 5th grades) about spinal health. Learning CurvesTM has been written by educators for chiropractors to teach children based on the aptitude and abilities of their respective ages.
	Ryderz are light weight, durable, and are easily attached to your bag's existing strap. At last relief from shoulder pain is here! http://www.siriusinnovation.com
	Invest In Your Child's Safety www.protect-your-child.com
	Childsafety.com (Parent's Helper) Leslie Saba, creator of the Be Alert ..... Children Driveway Sign and mother of four young children, developed this powerful and worthwhile sign out of a need and concern to protect her children from the speeding and unaware motorist.
	The Posture Page: Better Ways to Sit, Stand, Move & Present Yourself to the World. Features information on: Alexander Technique, CranioSacral Therapy, Physical Therapy, Tai Chi, Yoga, Osteopathy, Feldenkrais Method, Chiropractic, Rolfing, and Somatics.
	eSupportGroups: hosts many online discussion groups covering a wide variety of medical health topics.
	DirectoryKids.com is a support directory for parents. Although, this site contains web pages to purely children web sites such as children's games and activities, this site also contains web pages to topics such as child support and child abuse.
Kid Safe.com - Child safety and parenting resources about kids and teenagers, offering free child safety reports, and products that parents can use to better protect their family members and family values.
The mission of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association is to provide education, training, and support research because all children need chiropractic care.
The Complete Guide to the Alexander Technique The Alexander technique is a way of learning how you can get rid of harmful tension in your body.
Kid Directory provides varities of kid with many companies relating to parents, children, recreation, teen life, society, art child care and more.