The Safe Kids Mid-South stresses the importance of your child's back-to-school safety. Injuries can be avoided in many different ways and you can take an active role in teaching your child the proper behaviors that can result in preventing serious injuries.

Homework is just a part of life for a school-aged child. Along with homework comes toting loads of books that can put a heavy burden on backs.

Backpack Facts

• Heavy backpacks have a destructive impact on pasture and spinal health. Carrying too much weight contributes to poor disk alignment and forces the head forward which leads to muscle fatigue and strain, especially in the back and shoulders.
• Heavy loads cause injuries that last a lifetime. Injuries to shoulders, neck and back will cause recurring pain and problems.
• 55% of students carry more than the national guideline of 10-15% of body weight. Many children, teens and adults are carrying up to 40 pounds in their backpacks. The guidelines recommend:
• 50 pounds - No more than 7.5 pounds
• 80 pounds - No more than 12 pounds
• 100 pounds - No more than 15 pounds
• 130 pounds - No more than 19.5 pounds

Ways To Prevent Backpack Injury

• Choose a backpack that is small with thickly padded shoulder straps and a lumber support - it's also important to select a backpack with a padded back, a waist belt that distributes weight evenly and one with multiple compartments that will allow better weight distribution.
• Wear a backpack properly - distribute the weight properly, use both shoulder straps, take the backpack off when you will be standing for a long period of time.
• Lift a backpack properly - face the backpack before you lift it, bend at the knees and lift with your legs, not your back, and keep the pack close to your body.

When taking these precautions into consideration, your child should be protected against back injuries for improper backpack use.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the Safe Kids Mid-South at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, call (901) 572-6730.

This information was gathered from www.working-well.org