Parents should make a daily check of the how many items their school-age children stuff into their backpacks because the excess weight is causing them permanent damage.

A recent study found that about 76 per cent of the children carried backpacks exceeding 10 per cent of their body weight – “and the experts saying it should not exceed 10 per cent” – while 20 per cent carried more than 15 per cent of their body weight.

Parents should supervise the contents of backpacks of their children. Children have a tendency to collect items in their backpack, and over time these items will add to the weight of the backpack. The key is to carry only what is needed in order to avoid over loaded backpacks and spinal damage in children.

Original Article

It is recommended that your child’s backpack weigh no more than 10% of their body weight. Other recommendations include using a bag that has wheels so it can be pulled, and have us check your child’s spine and backpack – call today for an appointment.