Posted by: thepinetree on 08/08/2013 06:17 PM
Updated by: thepinetree on 08/08/2013 06:18 PM
Expires: 01/01/2018 12:00 AM
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Advice For Choosing a Back Pack from Pinnacle Physical Therapy
Angels Camp, CA...As you and your child plan and shop for the items on your “Back to School” list, think carefully about that new back pack. To avoid injury, choose a backpack that is the appropriate size for the back it needs to fit. Select a pack with well-padded shoulder straps to prevent too much pressure from being placed on the neck and shoulders. A proper fitting backpack should rest evenly in the middle of the back, with both straps placed on the shoulders. Straps should be snug, but not overly tight; basically, the strap should be easy to take on and off but not allow the pack to hang more than 4 inches below the waist. If the backpack comes with a waist belt, it should be worn to help distribute the weight more evenly...
The right backpack can only prevent injury if used properly. According to the bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy in Cairo, A. Ibrahim, A. El Kahka and H. Al Sayeed, in their “Comparative Study of static and dynamic balance of school age children with and without backpacks,” a filled backpack should be less than 15% of the overall body weight of the person carrying it. Keep heavier items close to the spine and lighter items in the outside pockets. It is also important to balance the weight of the contents from side to side in order to prevent the body from shifting into unnatural postures. Try to keep only the necessities for the day in the backpack at any given time. If your child has a locker, encourage them to leave items needed for the afternoon in it until lunch time when they can exchange them for those used in the morning. At least once a week, schedule a backpack clean-out session in order to keep unnecessary items from building up and adding excess weight.
If you have concerns or questions about your child’s backpack or posture, feel free to call Pinnacle Physical Therapy. We are here to help.
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