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WEEKLY NEWS 1: Prevent Problems With Backpacks

On Thursday, August 28, 2003, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) announced National School Backpack Awareness Day. The AOTA wants to help kids like you wear their backpacks in a smart, healthy way.

Studies have been done that found carrying too much weight in a backpack can cause shoulder, neck and back pain. It can also cause kids to have problems breathing. In fact, one study of American students found that 60% of them reported back pain related to their heavy backpacks.

Do you carry a backpack to school? The AOTA is offering advice for ways to make sure you won't injure yourself. They advise wearing both shoulder straps instead of relying on just one. They also suggest choosing a backpack--and adjusting it--so that it fits properly. Padded shoulder straps can also help ease the weight.

Other advice includes watching the amount of weight in the backpack, and distributing the weight so that the heaviest books are close to your back. You should never carry more than 15% of your bodyweight.

The AOTA is also trying to educate parents and teachers about backpack safety. They offer advice and guidelines that can help schools become more aware about the dangers of heavy backpacks.

The AOTA is composed of occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and occupational therapy students. Many of them work with children in their schools, homes or hospitals. They are trained to help children with both physical and mental problems.

--Written by Carla Shives

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