Heavy Backpacks

Do you carry a backpack to school each day? How heavy is the backpack? Some experts believe that the backpacks that students carry are too heavy. It isn’t because books are heavier these days. Rather, experts say that students are expected to carry more and more books in their backpacks. These books are heavy and cause a strain on the students’ backs.

Experts say that the backpack should not weigh more than 10–15% of a student’s body weight. Anything heavier than that can lead to back problems. The problems range from muscle strain to poor back alignment. The number of people being treated for backpack strain has increased. Emergency rooms are noticing a rise in the problem.

Does carrying a backpack that is too heavy really cause a problem? Apparently it does. Some of the signs to watch for are if the student complains of back pain or if he or she walks bent over sideways to adjust for the weight. Another sign to watch for is if they complain of tingling in the arms or hands.

To accommodate for the weight, experts recommend that students bring a backpack to school that has wheels. Another recommendation is a backpack with a waist strap. The strap helps to support the waist.