Health Tip: Choose the Right Backpack

Prevent back problems in your child

Related Encyclopedia • Acne • Alagille Syndrome • Appendicitis • Asthma in Children More... Related Animations • Dental Cavities More... Related Healthscout Videos The Empowered Patient Saving Kids Is The I-Port Appropriate For Children Medical Dogs More... Related Drug Information • Adderal XR • Concerta • Strattera More... Related News Articles • Health Tip: Keeping Your Children Warm in Winter • Newborn Screenings Now Required Across U.S. • Prenatal Exposure to Traffic Pollution May Lead to Asthma • Not Many U.S. Kids Need Statins More...

(HealthDay News) - Children can suffer bruises, muscle stiffness and strains from backpacks that are too heavy or are worn improperly.

Text Continues Below

---

The U.S. National Safety Council makes these recommendations when selecting a backpack for your child:

• Choose a backpack designed for safety and comfort, with padding in the back and shoulders.
• A backpack should have belts that strap around the hips and chest for extra support.
• Look for pockets and compartments inside the backpack to more evenly distribute the weight across the back.
• Look for a backpack with straps on the sides or bottom to compress the contents, so that items are as close to the back as possible
• Look for a backpack with reflective stripes for increased visibility at night.

-- Diana Kohnle