Experts made statements about heavy backpacks causing orthopedic problems. Emphasizing that school bags are responsible for the increase in back problems among school-age children, Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Op. Dr. Jotyar Ali said, “Scientists have reported that the maximum amount a child should carry without causing any damage is around 10 percent of their own body weight. If they carry 15 percent of their body weight, the risk of developing back problems increases as they age. Even carrying a high percentage of one’s body weight in a very short period of time will have a detrimental effect. Also, changes in fashion can make the problem worse. “Backpacks are now more commonly worn on just one shoulder, doubling the load on one side of the body and potentially causing more problems with a child’s neck and hips.”
MAKE SURE CHILDREN WEAR THEIR BACKPACKS PROPERLY
Emphasizing that you should talk to your child about their daily needs for school, Op. Dr. Jotyar Ali says, “For example, they may not need to buy so many books every day, even if they think they should. Also, personal lockers for children at school can help solve this problem, eliminating the need to carry everything on their backs. This can greatly reduce the amount of weight in your child’s backpack, preventing them from straining themselves. It should be routine to empty bags frequently and remove unused loads. Make sure your child is wearing the backpack properly. Heavier books should be stowed closest to their backs, and the straps should be pulled tight so that the backpack does not easily move up and down while your child is wearing it. This ensures that any weight your child has to carry is evenly distributed over your child’s entire back, rather than focusing on one spot that may become painful later on.”
PAY ATTENTION TO THE CHILD’S POSITION
Warns families to pay attention to the posture of their children, Op. Dr. Jotyar Ali says, “Pay attention to your child’s posture. The way a person sits often reveals how their back feels, and many children often dislike complaining about minor aches and pains. If they’re constantly hunched over, or if they’re sitting with their feet spread out when sitting, they’re probably trying to find a more comfortable position. If you see such behavior, politely ask them if their back hurts. Sitting with one foot tucked under can also be another sign of back pain to watch out for.