BACK TO SCHOOL is here! And so are the BackPacks
Quick tips by Dr. Greg Steiner

• Make sure the backpack is a good fit for the child. Bigger bags encourage over filling. Many backpacks are now equipped with wheels, provided the handle extends long enough to all the child to stand upright while pulling it.
• Shoulder straps should be adjustable.
• Never carry the backpack on just one side of the shoulder. It produces an uneven distribution of weight on one side forcing the child to lean, which lead to further problems. Always use both straps.
• Make sure the shoulder straps are tight enough so the pack hangs slightly below the shoulders with no more than 4 inches hanging below the waist.
• Use waist straps and chest straps – it improves how the bag is positioned on the body and encourages the bag to be worn over both shoulders.
• Doctors suggest that no one carry more than 15% of their weight in a backpack. If a child weights 70lbs, they should not be carrying more than 10 1/2 lbs in their pack. No one should carry more than 25lbs in a backpack.
• Pack the heavier items at the bottom. The goal here is to transfer the weight to the hips. A backpack with compartments helps keep the load in place.

Read his blog and find out more about Dr Steiner at www.caclinicallen.com