Backpack tips
The Department of Orthopaedics at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York offers these tips to parents when choosing a backpack for their child this school year:
- Two straps are better than one. Backpacks with two straps distribute the weight of the bag more evenly. The extra strap also places less stress on the shoulders.
- A third strap is even better. Find a backpack with a strap that goes around the child’s waist. This balances the backpack’s weight between the shoulders and hips.
- No straps might be best. A rolling bag with wheels places almost no stress on the back. But check with your school as some may not allow use of rolling bags.
For more information on backpack safety log on to: kidshealth.org.