Today is National School Backpack Awareness Day, sponsored by The National Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA).  AOTA states that "half of students ages 9 to 20 reported chronic back pain related to backpacks."

    According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 7,000 emergency room visits in 2001 were related to backpacks and book bags with approximately half of those injuries occurring in children 5 - 14 years old.

     Parents must take responsibility to teach children about wearing backpacks properly and distributing the weight evenly.  Backpacks should be worn close to the body, with the weight distributed evenly and closest to the child's center of gravity.  

   Dr. Paula Kramer, chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia explains:

   Otherwise, not only will the heavy backpacks cause strain on backs and necks, but it will also make the child unsafe because it throws off their center of gravity.

   Be sure your child only lugs the necessary books and materials to and from school.  Check the backpacks often and remind children that if they do not need to bring items home, they should leave them at school.  Another option would be a backpack with wheels, providing these are allowed at your school.

   Visit AOTA for helpful tips on backpack safety to educate you and your family.