13/10/2025
🎒 School Bags & Back Pain – What Every Parent Should Know!
Did you know that simply switching to a backpack worn over both shoulders can reduce your child’s risk of back pain by almost 23%? 🤯
A large French study found that kids who used a backpack properly had significantly less pain than those carrying bags on one shoulder or by hand.
Here’s what they discovered:
📊 Out of 1,178 children:
26% never had back pain
23% had pain once
36% had pain a few times
13% had frequent pain
2% had continual pain
Most said their pain was in the lower back, and rates increased after age 12 — especially in girls. This could be linked to puberty, growth spurts, and heavier school loads 📚
💡 What can parents do?
The Chiropractors’ Association of Australia recommends:
✅ Choose a backpack style bag for even weight across both shoulders.
✅ Keep bag weight under 10% of your child’s body weight.
✅ The top of the bag should reach the shoulders and the bottom shouldn’t go below the low back.
✅ Pack heavier items close to the spine, and balance the load evenly.
✅ Look for padded straps and a waist strap for comfort.
A well-fitted backpack and good posture can make a big difference in your child’s spinal health 💪
If you’d like your child’s spine and school bag checked, ask us at the office — we’re happy to help! 👋
