September 19 is Backpack Awareness Day The American Physical Therapy Association has selected September 19 as "National Backpack Awareness Day." The APTA recognizes that while backpacks are one of the most convenient ways to carry books, overloaded or improperly worn backpacks may lead to injuries.
Working with the American Occupational Therapy Association, the APTA advises that parents, students and educators should be aware of the risks and recommends the following tips for safe backpack use:
- Wear both straps. Using only one strap causes one side of the body to bear the majority of the weight of the backpack. By wearing two shoulder straps, the weight of the backpack is better distributed and a well-aligned symmetrical postures is promoted.
- Put on and remove backpacks carefully. Keep the trunk of the body stable and avoid excessive twisting.
- Wear the backpack over the strongest mid-back muscles. Pay close attention to the way the backpack is positioned on the back. It should rest evenly in the middle of the back near the child's center of gravity. Shoulder straps should be adjusted to allow the child to put on and take off the backpack without difficulty and permit free movement of the arms. Straps should not be too loose, and the backpack should not extend below the low back.
- Lighten the load. Try to keep the load at 10 to 15 percent or less of the child's bodyweight. Carry only those items that are required for the day. Organize the contents of the backpack by placing the heaviest items closest to the child's back.
- Encourage activity. Children who are active tend to have better muscle flexibility and strength, which makes it easier to carry a backpack.
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