08/08/2026
FUN FACT FRIDAY! ✏️
Your backpack health matters! School is around the corner, so here are some great tips to keep in mind as your child gets prepped for the first day of school.
In the first slide with Maren you can see that her backpack straps are snug and the chest strap is buckled over her sternum. The second and third slides show examples how kids often wear their backpacks, but add unnecessary force to their bodies. Add in weight from books, clothing, water bottles, etc, and they can easily injury themselves.
1. A backpack should weigh no more than 10–15% of a person's body weight. 🎒
For a 100-pound child, that's only 10–15 pounds! Many students unknowingly carry much more.
2. Two straps are better than one.
Wearing a backpack on one shoulder forces the body to compensate, increasing stress on the neck, shoulders, and back.
3. The heaviest items belong closest to your back. 📚
Keeping books and laptops nearest your spine reduces strain and improves balance.
4. Bigger isn't always better.
A larger backpack often means more room to carry unnecessary weight. Most Kinder through 2nd or 3rd graders do better with a 14 to 15 inch backpack. Larger kids can have larger backpacks (17 inches).
5. Backpack straps should be snug.
A backpack that hangs too low increases the force on your spine and can encourage poor posture.
6. Chest and waist straps aren't just for hiking.
They help distribute weight more evenly and reduce stress on the shoulders.
7. Backpacks don't cause scoliosis.
While heavy backpacks can contribute to muscle soreness, fatigue, and temporary postural changes, they have not been shown to cause scoliosis.
8. A quick weekly clean-out can save your back.
Removing old papers, forgotten water bottles, and unnecessary items can lighten the load significantly.
Finally, kids using backpacks can always benefit from adjustments. Call or click the links to get scheduled.
📍615 Sierra Rose Dr, Ste 2C, Reno NV 89511
📲 775-826-5800
💻 ehr.clinicdr.com/external/SdZUNIR
