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Local Voices

Backpack Safety Tips for Back to School

Westport Urgent Care, the premier provider of urgent care medicine for the Westport region, says back to school should not be a pain in the back for your child. Deborah A. Mogelof, MD, of Westport Urgent Care, reminds parents that selecting a backpack for your child is key to avoiding back pain and potential future health issues.

“We are lucky to have a fantastic school system. For the most part, the only significant item needed for getting your student back to school is a backpack for carrying books and other items. With a little proper planning, you can make sure your child’s backpack does the job it’s supposed to do without creating pain or other health issues.”

According to Dr. Mogelof, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents look for the following when choosing the right backpack:

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  • A lightweight pack that doesn't add a lot of weight to your child's load (for example, even though leather packs look cool, they weigh more than traditional canvas backpacks).
  • Two wide, padded shoulder straps; straps that are too narrow can dig into shoulders.
  • A padded back, which not only provides increased comfort, but also protects kids from being poked by sharp edges on objects (pencils, rulers, notebooks, etc.) inside the pack.
  • A waist belt, which helps to distribute the weight more evenly across the body.
  • Multiple compartments, which can help distribute the weight more evenly. 

“It’s also important to remember that bbackpacks that are too heavy can cause arching of the back, bending forward and straining of the back and shoulders, and leaning to one side (especially if student carries pack on one shoulder). Because children are in the process forming and building bones, it is very important to prevent spinal alignment problems, and spinal disc injuries that can result from a backpack that is too heavy or one that does not fit your child correctly,” added Dr. Mogelof.

Experts say it is a good idea to make sure your child never carries a backpack that is 15% of their body weight or heavier. When fitting your child for a backpack, the bottom of the pack should be aligned on your child’s back near an imaginary line extending from your child’s belly button around the torso.

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“As a parent, backpacks on wheels which look like small, overhead luggage bags may be good options for students who have to lug around really heavy loads of books and supplies, but remember, they're extremely difficult to pull up stairs and to roll through snow. It’s also a good idea to check with the school before buying a rolling pack; many schools don't allow them because they can pose a tripping hazard in the hallways,” said Dr. Mogelof.

If your child begins to have back pain or severe discomfort in the muscles supporting the back and legs, odds are an improperly fitted or too heavy backpack may be the culprit. If the pain persists or you have questions that need an immediate answer, feel free to contact Dr. Mogelof at Westport Urgent Care for immediate assistance.

 Westport Urgent Care measures its success through patient satisfaction and extraordinary care.   Westport Urgent Care also offers employers professional services for workers compensation, routine exams, and drug testing.  Westport Urgent Care provides a convenient, cost effective alternative to emergency rooms and doctor’s offices from their office at 1045 Post Road East.  For additional information call (203) 557-8200 or visit their website at www.westporturgentcare.com

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