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With a 330 per cent increase in injuries from backpacks since 1996, now more than ever parents have to think of their kids' spinal health, according to Obus Forme Ltd.

Taking preventative measures for kids' spinal health and proper body development is key, as research shows correlations between backpack weight and spinal development, back pain, posture and gait.

Studies show adolescents who suffer from back pain will probably experience chronic back pain as adults.

While parents may not be able to control the weight of their children's textbooks and homework, they can influence backpack selection and usage. Choosing a backpack with a proper support system, as well as arming kids with the knowledge of proper backpack use is essential.

Just the facts: 

When carrying a heavy load in a backpack without proper support, the body is forced to make adjustments, often incorrectly, to compensate for the weight. The most common postural adaptations include stooping forward, rounding of the shoulders as well as changes in neck alignment. �

A child's ability to breathe can also be compromised by a heavy backpack and nerve compression to the arms causing pain, numbness and tingling may occur resulting from the poor fit and design of some shoulder straps.

More than 75 per cent of youths aged 12 to 18 suffer from back pain and the weight of their backpack has been identified as a leading contributor to this increased pain.

The Ontario Chiropractic Association recommends a maximum load weight of 10 to 15 per cent of a child's body weight. Studies show the average weight of a backpack in use is 17 per cent, the equivalent of a 150-pound adult carrying a 26-pound load.

Additional studies have shown children carrying backpacks weighing as much as 30 to 40 per cent of their body weight.

A child carrying a backpack weighing 12 pounds and lifting it 10 times per day for a 180-day school year, will have lifted and carried 21,600 pounds, nearly 10 tonnes or the equivalent of six mid-sized automobiles. �

Backpack safety measures:

Selecting: 

• Well-padded back for comfort and to prevent objects from digging into the back.

• Well-padded and contoured shoulder straps for comfort and to prevent nerve compression. ïÂ?§

• Numerous pockets and compartments to keep things from shifting around.

• A waist strap to distribute weight onto hips and off of the spine and shoulders. ïÂ?§

• Backpacks should not extend higher than shoulder level and not lower than four inches below the waist.

Packing:

•Pack the heaviest items so they are closest to the child's back. If the heaviest items are packed further away, this throws off the child's centre of gravity and causes unnecessary strain. ïÂ?§

• Use the inside organizer compartments to keep items secured during transit. ïÂ?§

• Carry only what is necessary in the backpack and make frequent trips to the locker during the day if possible.

• Each night, clean out the backpack of unnecessary items and papers.

Lifting and carrying:

• Adjust both shoulder straps so that the bottom of the backpack is just above the waist. Don't wear backpacks slung low over the buttocks. 

• Bend at the knees to lift the backpack, squat or kneel, but never bend at the waist.

• Lift the pack with both hands and hold it close to the body. Slip one arm through one shoulder strap and then the other.

• If you have to lean over, the backpack is too heavy, incorrectly fitted or wrongly packed.

Visit www.obusforme.com for details.