Backpack Basics: Article Summary for Health

What is the healthy way to carry your books home from school? Veronica read an article on this topic for Health class. 

Check out the article here: 


http://kidshealth.org/teen/school_jobs/school/backpack.html 


Now read Veronica's summary:

Backpacks: Helpful, Right?

Backpacks are something you use everyday, they’re helpful and can carry anything that’s any weight. That’s exactly why they can hurt you too. Although, they are better than messenger bags for carrying books and supplies. The weight is level meaning it is evenly distributed throughout your body. Some of the most important muscles can be at risk when not using something that seems simple like a backpack.

When putting this weight on your back in the wrong way it can cause you to arch or bend at the hips. After a while these minor discomforts can become serious injuries. Doing these things can cause your back to compress unnaturally, round your shoulders, curve your upper back, and can lead to bad posture. Slinging it over one shoulder can make you bend one way.

Also, the straps can pinch nerves and interfere with circulation causing, tingling, numbness, and weakness in your arms and hands. Using a backpack makes it more likely for you to fall especially on stairs.

Symptoms of your backpack being a problem are, when you have to struggle to get your backpack off, you have to lean forward to carry it, and also having regular back pains. If you adjust the weight or the way you’re carrying it and are still experiencing problems, talk to your doctor.

Know how to use and pick a backpack that will help you with these few tips.

1.                    Make sure to grab a backpack with padded straps and make them considerably wide.

2.                    Make it so that the backpack sits snuggly against your back if you feel it bumping on your behind or lower back than you’re not wearing it correctly.

3.                    Try a backpack with wheels. They may not be considered cool, but it’s better than having to wear a brace on your back the rest of the year.

4.                    Your backpack should only weigh as much as 10% or 15% of your body weight.

5.                    When you’re picking up your backpack bend at the knees and lightly put it on your back.

6.                    To prevent a large risk of back injuries, strengthen your core.

All in all, when carrying a backpack it can be helpful when using it the right way.