Backpack Safety
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| Backpack Weigh-In [Published on July 12, 2011] Consumer Reports sizes up what kids are carrying in their backpacks and has a caution. |
Over the past few years, doctors have seen more and more children and adults coming into their offices complaining of back pain . Backpacks and oversize tote bags have made it easy for many Americans to throw in everything but the kitchen sink without realizing they could be throwing out their backs. Millions of students are racing to school bus stops or scurrying to their classes with overstuffed backpacks slung over one shoulder. While carrying a backpack might seem harmless enough, it can cause some painful back and neck problems. Too many of our younger children are carrying overweight backpacks to school.
A study conducted at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine found that how loads are distributed under backpack straps may help identify the source of shoulder and back pain in children .
The study, published in the December 5, 2005, issue of the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, concludes that the average backpack load that children are now carrying should be reduced.
According to previous studies, children commonly carry backpack loads that are 22% of their body weight. The study found that pressures at 20% of body weight measured 70 mmHg on the left shoulder and 110 mmHg on the right shoulder – skin surface pressures that are more than double and triple the threshold for reduced blood flow.
Repetitive improper use of a backpack causes muscular imbalance , postural changes, and subsequent nerve system dysfunction.
| Buy the best backpack for your child - Consumer Reports |
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