Backpack safety for students to limit back pain

Here are some backpack safety tips for students as the new school year approaches.

Due to kids heading back to school all along the Coast, it is important for students of all ages to learn backpack safety.

Backpacks are the go-to object when it comes to bringing supplies and books to class, but how you wear them can cause long term effects including neck and back pain.

Dr. DeWitt has helpful tips when backpack shopping. “When you’re getting a backpack for your kids, make sure the width of the backpack is about the size of your child’s torso and then also make sure that the backpack isn’t hanging below four inches below their waist. So, you don’t want the backpack too low because that’s gonna put more pressure on their lower back also.”

Elementary School teacher Dana Hyer states that improper use of backpacks is nothing new to her classrooms. “Not having the straps tight and secure to them, so a lot of the times when they come in, I try to like doctor it up a little bit, so when they’re leaving it’s not so much of an issue anymore. Or even helping them go through things that are like months old. With the older kids, I see more of the fashion trends where they kinda got one strap and like trying to look cool, but then they’re complaining that it’s heavy because they have multiple books and binders so it’s just an on-going issue with a variety of ages I’ve found.”

Whether your student is pre-K age or maybe you’re a college student, it is important to learn how to properly distribute your weight in a bag.

Helpful things to know for anyone wearing a backpack is to wear both straps on both shoulders, make sure the straps are tight and close to your body, and make sure your heavier objects are closest to your back.