Kids & Viruses: A Pediatrician’s Practical Advice
NOV 06, 2023Most of the illnesses children get will have a viral cause. We should do our best to treat their symptoms but also know the warning signs for something more serious.
Read MoreA backpack is one of the best ways to tote homework, but an overloaded or improperly worn backpack will get a failing grade.
Worn correctly and not overloaded, a backpack is supported by some of the strongest muscles in the body: the back and abdominal muscles. They work together to stabilize the trunk and hold the body in proper postural alignment.
Improper backpack use, however, can cause injury – especially to children with young, growing muscles and joints. The American Physical Therapy Association recommends a child’s backpack weigh no more than about 10% of his or her body weight.
Injury can occur when a heavy load causes poor postures, such as arching the back, leaning forward or, if only one strap is used, leaning to one side. Over time, these positions can cause compression and/ or improper spinal alignment, and may damage the disks between the vertebrae that provide shock absorption.
A too-heavy load can also cause muscles to work harder, leading to strain and fatigue, and can leave the back more prone to injury. A heavy load may also cause stress or compression to the shoulders and arms. When nerves are compressed, the child may experience tingling or numbness in the arms.
If heavier loads are truly necessary, backpacks with wheels may be a good option. However, wheeled backpacks may present problems, such as getting up and down stairs or trying to fit into cramped locker spaces. If a wheeled backpack is chosen, be sure the extended handle is long enough so your child is not forced to twist and bend, and that the wheels are sufficiently large so the backpack doesn’t shake or topple.
Make sure that your child stays injury-free by asking about and looking for the following signs that the backpack is too heavy:
Urge your kids to tell you if they are in pain or have discomfort before a problem becomes serious. If you have questions, reach out to a family medicine provider.
Most of the illnesses children get will have a viral cause. We should do our best to treat their symptoms but also know the warning signs for something more serious.
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