Back to class: What's the ideal backpack weight? Here are the risks

Thus, in the short term there may be consequences such as back and neck pain. In the medium term problems such as changes in gait and posture. Long-term degenerative spinal lesions may be involved, which alters body growth.

“ When the weight limit is exceeded, children can begin to feel stiffness in the neck, shoulder and back pain”, continues the doctor Jazini to SpineMD website.

How to reduce the effects of backpack weight

There are several ways to reduce the effects of the weight of backpacks on the backs of young people. Pediatrician Rita Calado, in an article for the website of Hospital da Luz Lisboa, left some recommendations.

“As important as the weight of the backpack, or even more important, is the way it is used. When buying a backpack, choose one with wide, padded straps and always distribute the weight evenly between the two shoulders. When the weight is loaded on only one shoulder, as children usually do, the spine is forced to bend to compensate, which can lead to poor posture, muscle pain and other problems ", reveals Rita Quiet.

You should also better organize the contents inside the backpack. “The heaviest items placed at the bottom and as close to the child's back as possible. This helps prevent the spine from leaning back to compensate for the poor weight distribution.”

Doctor Yash Mehta revealed to Forbes other tips that may be useful for reducing the effects of heavy backpacks on the backs of the little ones. The handles are one of the points to consider. “It is useful to have padding in the loops and even in the lumbar region. A buckle that crosses the chest also helps in weight distribution.”

You should also avoid overfilling your backpack. “If possible, avoid overloading the backpack. Maybe that means taking a separate lunch box or a separate sports bag. Perhaps they are carrying more than necessary for the day.”

And choose a wheel backpack? Are there any advantages? Doctor Yash Mehta leaves some tips. “A backpack with wheels distributes the weight on the wheels instead of overloading the delicate back of the child. If your child carries a lot of school supplies in his backpack, consider the health of the spine and choose this alternative.”