A concerned Mum recently asked me,
Caring Mother"how heavy should children’s school bags should be?"
It's a great question! You may also be wondering how school bags impact on your child’s health.
When your child’s bag is too heavy, it can cause back pain, changes to the natural curves of the spine, rounded shoulders, muscle strain and/or fatigue.
Ideally, back packs should weigh less than 10% of your child’s weight.
So How Can You Help?
What Type of Bag is Best?
Rolling bags that have wheels and an extendable handle are an option but they still need to be lifted and may create a trip hazard. Back packs, when used correctly still seem to be the best option.
What should I look for in a back pack?
"Ideally, back packs should weigh less than 10% of your child’s weight."
How do you use a back pack properly?
If your child complain of any of the symptoms discussed here, see your chiropractor or health care professional. Here at Clayfield Chiropractic, we are happy to check your child’s bag for you. Bring it along to your next appointment!
Hint: You can do so at the bottom of this page.
Hint: You can do so at the bottom of this page.
References
Heavy School Bags, Health, Safety and Wellbeing, http://education.qld.gov.au/health/pdfs/healthsafety/factsheet_hevbags.pdf
Avoiding Injuries from School Bags and Computers, http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/wellbeing/health/ways-to-keep-your-childs-back-and-posture-healthy

Author: Cheyne
Cheyne graduated from Sydney College of Chiropractic and Osteopathy in 1984. She also has postgraduate qualifications in paediatric chiropractic care. Before joining Clayfield Chiropractic Clinic in 1993, Cheyne enjoyed seven years in a Sydney based practice. Cheyne has 5 children and 3 grandchildren.