In this issue:
Healthy Bookbags
9/3/2009
Now that students have returned to classroom it is time to give some thought to the effects of carrying bookbags incorrectly.
It has been shown that the incidence of back, neck and shoulder pain is rising among children. This is often due to carrying heavy bookbags, poor bookbag design, improper fit and an overall decrease in physical activity. These factors can result in poor posture, overstretching of soft tissues and unnecessary strain on muscles and joints.
Bookbags are one of the best ways to carry things, but there are still many things to keep in mind when choosing a bookbag. Choose a bookbag that has back padding and fits well. The bottom of the bookbag should sit at two inches above the waist. There should be two adjustable padded shoulder straps that are approximately two inches wide and on adjustable waist belt and/or hip strap and compression strap. These straps distribute forces over a larger area so larger muscle groups are working to reduce the risk of strain.
Correctly filling a bookbag is another important thing to keep in mind to avoid injury. Always place heavier objects closer to the back, but never weigh more than 15 per cent of the student’s body weight (for example, if the students weighs 50 lbs, the bookbag should not weigh more than 7.5 lbs. when filled ). It is also important to fill side pockets evenly.
Preparing for school in a healthy way can prove to be helpful for the student’s body now and in the future. Things that are taken care of will always last and work properly for much longer.
For further information on correct backpack fitting and avoiding injury, contact the Physiotherapy Department at James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander (256-5496), the Physiotherapy Department at Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre in Grand Falls-Windsor (292-2242) visit www. physiotherapy.ca.