Tips for Backpack Safety
Sutter Children's Center, Sacramento

Risk factors for back pain in association with backpacks:

• Backpacks weighing 10 percent or more of the child's body weight
• Holding the backpack by the straps
• Carrying the pack on one shoulder
• Incorrectly packed backpack
• Incorrectly fitted backpack

We recommend that the weight of the backpack not exceed 10 percent of the child's ideal body weight, that the backpacks be correctly fitted and packed, and that the straps be placed one over each shoulder and not used by handles to carry the backpack. We also recommend some type of daily exercise for our pediatric patients even if it is a brisk walk.

For more information about our spine services visit sutterneuro.org.

Previous Page