The “Backpack Syndrome”

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

By Kathy J. Volrath, Certified Massage Therapist

In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Hermione came down the steps to the Yule Ball holding herself differently – perhaps because she wasn’t carrying 20 books over her back.

Does your child have a different posture when carrying a backpack?   Could your child be suffering from “Backpack Syndrome?” 

The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates nearly 4,000 emergency room visits each year as a result of injuries from backpacks.  Heavy backpacks may cause shoulder, back and posture problems. When a child leans to one side to compensate for the weight of the backpack, scoliosis and upper and lower back strain and poor posture can result.  The spine itself can become inflamed.  

In November 1998, Donna E. Pascoe of Auburn University researched the influence of backpacks on students’ posture.  The research revealed that heavy backpacks can cause back pain, nerve damage to the shoulder, numbness and tingling in the arms and hands.

Choosing the correct backpack with shoulder padding and a waist strap can help reduce “Backpack Syndrome.”   A backpack should never hold more than 15% of the child’s weight.  If the back pain is severe or persistent, or if the pain lingers after adjusting the backpack – see a doctor. And, for women carrying heavy purses, the same precautions apply.

If the muscles become fatigued from carrying an extra load, a gentle massage with stretching will help relieve muscle tightness.  Therapeutic Kneads Wellness Center is located at 1522 Liberty Road, Suite B, Eldersburg, MD  21784. The Wellness Center offers massage, reflexology, biofield therapies and acupuncture.