
09/26/2025
Is Your Teen’s Backpack Hurting Their Back?
Heavy backpacks and poor carrying habits can cause back, shoulder, and neck pain in teens—especially as the school year gets busy. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, we often see teens struggling with discomfort caused by overloaded or improperly worn backpacks.
Here are a few simple tips to help protect your teen’s back:
• Choose a backpack with padded straps and multiple compartments to distribute weight evenly.
• Encourage using both shoulder straps instead of just one.
• Pack only what’s necessary—limit weight to no more than 10-15% of their body weight.
• Adjust straps so the backpack sits close to the back and doesn't hang low.
If your teen complains of ongoing back or shoulder pain, physical therapy can help reduce discomfort, improve posture, and teach healthy habits for the future. Contact us today! 631-212-1822
https://islandsportspt.com/services/