Health experts warn of risks from heavy school backpacks

Medical experts are warning parents about the physical risks associated with heavy school backpacks, noting that improper weight and carrying methods can lead to long-term musculoskeletal issues in children.

Specialists recommend that a backpack's total weight should ideally not exceed 10% of a child's body weight, with 15% serving as the absolute upper limit. Carrying loads beyond these thresholds can cause neck, shoulder, and back pain, muscle fatigue, spasms, and permanent postural deformities such as hunching.

To mitigate these risks, experts suggest several ergonomic practices:

• Daily Review: Parents should help children check their schedules daily to remove unnecessary books, toys, or accumulated items. • Proper Carrying: Backpacks should be worn using both shoulder straps to distribute weight evenly. Carrying a bag on a single shoulder causes asymmetric loading and spinal misalignment. • Fit and Placement: Bags should be adjusted to fit the child's back closely, staying near the waist rather than hanging too low. Heavy items should be placed closest to the spine. • Rolling Bags: While practical for long distances, rolling backpacks can cause asymmetric strain if children must lift them with one hand to navigate stairs or curbs.