It’s that time of year when the kids have returned to school and a very common question we get asked is about their back packs. Most schools have their own branded back packs and I know sending my preppie off too school it almost looked bigger than him!

But there are still a number of ways you can help reduce the load on your child’s spine. These include:
• Always use both shoulder straps and wear the backpack on the back rather than over one shoulder.
• Adjust the shoulder straps so that the backpack is snug on your child’s back and sitting just above the waist. It should not be carried low near their buttocks.
• Use the waist straps, and chest straps if also there, as this helps transfer the load from the back to the hips.
• Try to keep the weight of the bag at 15% of your child’s body weight. This can be difficult but you can help this by using a separate bag, held in their hand, for their computer, laptop, library books, or even their lunchbox.
• Pack heaviest objects into the backpack first so they are carried lower and closest to the body.
• Fill compartments so that the load is evenly distributed throughout the backpack and items do not shift during movement.
• Frequently empty their bags to get rid of those unnecessary items that have found their way to the bottom and hid there for months!
• Pack sharp or bulky objects in the backpack so they do not contact the back

If you are unsure on any of this or have any further questions please contact one of our Osteopaths at the clinic on 5977-0466 for further information.