That’s it, the summer vacation is officially over, and the children are returning to the classroom, to a routine of lessons, assignments, and a schoolbag packed with books. Not every parent is aware that the weight of the bag directly affects the child’s back health. Daily load, especially at an age when the spine is still developing, can cause fatigue, pain, and even posture changes that will be felt for years to come.
Studies show that nearly a third of school-age children report back pain related to the weight of the bag they carry every day. For example, a study in the United States, published by the Spine Health Foundation, found that about 37 percent of students suffer from back pain, with the main cause being an overloaded schoolbag.
In addition, a large-scale study conducted in India among more than 4,000 students aged 8 to 13 found that 32 percent of children suffer from back pain, with most of them carrying bags that exceeded the recommendation of up to 10 percent of their body weight.
Therefore, it is important for parents to know – investing in choosing the right schoolbag and in maintaining correct carrying habits is not a luxury. It is an essential step that prevents fatigue, reduces the risk of cumulative damage, and protects the child’s back health over time.
How to choose the right schoolbag?
• Reasonable weight: The medical recommendation is that a schoolbag should not exceed 15 percent of the child’s weight. A child who weighs 30 kilograms, for example, should not carry a bag over 4.5 kilograms.
• Materials and straps: Choose a bag made of strong but lightweight material, with wide and padded straps that distribute the load evenly and sit close to the back.
• Weight distribution: Place the heavy books in the compartment closest to the back. The lighter items should go in the front and distant compartments.
Daily habits that are important to adopt
• Daily check of bag weight: Go over the bag together with the child and remove unnecessary equipment.
• Use of lockers or storage spaces at school: To avoid unnecessary carrying throughout the day.
• Strengthening the body: Regular physical activity that strengthens the back and abdominal muscles, improves posture, and reduces the risk of pain.
• Attention to warning signs: If the child complains of persistent pain, or if a change in posture is observed, consult a doctor or physiotherapist.
The return to school is an opportunity for parents to instill healthy habits in children that will prevent problems in the future. A suitable schoolbag, proper weight, and smart carrying habits can save pain and damage. When attention is given to this, children begin the school year healthy, strong, and protected.
Dr. Said Darawshi, Orthopedic Specialist, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Northern District