The Harmful Effect Of Heavy Backpacks On Kids!

Kids

oi-Staff

By Staff

Thursday, August 6, 2009, 17:41

The day had to come soon. Experts say that the habits of children carrying heave backpacks, can be injurious to ones health. It may result to a lot of diseases, back aches being the main concern.

Experts now feel that parents should take the initiative to see that their child, unknowingly, shouldn't be carry to heavy a bag to their schools. "Parents should inspect their child's backpack from time to time," said Dr. Michael Vitale , chief of pediatric spine and scoliosis surgery. He adds: "They often carry much more than they should with extra shoes, toys and other unnecessary items."

He explains: "A backpack shouldn't weigh more than 15 percent of the child's weight, or about seven pounds for a child who weighs 50 pounds." On this, the experts feel that it's time that parents should walk a step ahead and make things clear with the teachers. "If it is textbooks that are making the bag too heavy, parents should speak with the teacher -- sometimes these books can be left at school," he concludes.

So, how does one combat the situation? To prevent injury, Vitale suggests that children should wear a backpack correctly over both shoulders to spread the weight evenly.

Alternately, they should consider a wheeled backpack. He also said that if the child experiences persistent pain, parents should consult with their pediatrician, who may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles.

Some indicators of trouble include when the child's posture changes while wearing the backpack, when they struggle to put it on, or any pain, tingling or red marks.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.