Orthopedic Problems That May Arise from Backpack Use in School Children

Schools have reopened, and back-to-school shopping has been done. Many of us have chosen backpacks for our children. But did you know that improper use of backpacks can lead to orthopedic problems in children?

Using backpacks can lead to orthopedic and developmental issues, particularly in children. Here are some orthopedic and developmental problems that may arise from carrying a backpack:

1. Postural Disorders

Heavy or improperly positioned backpacks can cause postural disorders in children. Poor posture can lead to spinal curvatures, such as scoliosis.

2. Back and Neck Pain

Regularly carrying heavy backpacks can overload a child’s back and neck muscles. This can over time lead to chronic back and neck pain.

3. Postural Irregularities

The weight of a backpack can disrupt children’s balance, leading to walking abnormalities and other developmental issues. This can particularly cause pelvic and spinal imbalances in growing children.

4. Muscle Weakness

Carrying heavy backpacks may excessively strain a child’s back muscles. Studies have shown that this condition can lead to muscle weakness over time.

5. Nerve Compression

Excessive strain from heavy backpack use can lead to nerve compression, especially in the shoulder and neck areas, such as brachial plexus issues. This condition presents itself in children as weakness in the arm or pain in the back and shoulders.

6. Foot Problems

Heavy backpacks can affect how children walk and stand. This may lead to flat feet or other foot deformities in children.

Recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics Regarding Backpack Use

1. Check the Weight: The weight of the backpack should not exceed 10-15% of the child’s body weight. Overly heavy bags can lead to back and neck pain.

2. Pay Attention to Features: The bag should have back and waist support. Choose backpacks with anatomical and soft straps. Ensure that the bag is easy for the child to open and close.

3. Teach Your Child How to Carry the Bag Properly: A backpack should always be worn on both shoulders equally. If backpacks are carried over one shoulder, the load is not evenly distributed, affecting spinal health.

4. Organize Items in the Bag: Use placement techniques to balance the weight. For this, place heavier items at the bottom of the bag and lighter items at the top.

5. Regularly Check Your Child’s Backpack: The contents of the backpack should be reviewed regularly. Ensure that only necessary items are in the bag. Encourage your child to use their school locker for items whenever possible, to prevent unnecessary carrying of books and materials.

6. Encourage Your Child to Engage in Physical Activity and Sports: Encouraging physical activities in children is important for their overall physical health. Strong back muscles help them be less affected by carrying heavy bags.

These recommendations are important for minimizing the issues children face while using backpacks and raising awareness. It is crucial for both parents and educators to be attentive to this matter in order to protect children’s health and support their development.