Healthy Habits for Backpack Wearing: Bend at the hips and knees when lifting a backpack. Pick the backpack up before threading the shoulders through the straps. when possible, place the backpack on a desk or whatever is near you, then turn around and thread the shoulders through the straps. Always wear both straps. Fill up water bottles at school rather than at home to reduce the weight of the backpack. Take breaks from carrying by removing the backpack when waiting at the bus stop or in the hallway. monitor contents nightly and remove what isn’t needed. organize contents for school-day rotation and unload unneeded items into a locker when possible.

Backpack Safety: Backpacks are a popular and practical way for children and teenagers to carry schoolbooks and supplies. They are designed to distribute the weight of the load among some of the body’s strongest muscles. when used correctly, backpacks are a good way to carry the necessities of the school day.

Tips for Proper Use of Backpacks: Backpacks that are too heavy or worn incorrectly can cause problems for children and teenagers. Improperly used backpacks may injure muscles and joints. This can lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain.

Warning Signs of Trouble: Possible signs of trouble are if the backpack is difficult to take on and off or the child struggles with the weight of the backpack or gets caught in the backpack when removing it. If red strap marks are visible on the child’s shoulders after wearing, or the child complains of pain, tingling, or numbness, the backpack may be too heavy, especially if noticeable posture changes are observed.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com