Are heavy backpacks injuring little bodies?

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children’s Health Minute, presented by this station and TexCare-- connecting families with CHIP and Children’s Medicaid.

Experts say you shouldn't carry more than twenty percent of your body weight, however, middle school students routinely carry 30 to 50 percent of their weight. Most kids won't have long term problems from the burden, but if your child has a pre-existing back problem, such as a bad muscle pull, carrying the heavy load could prolong the recovery period.

To be safe, children should wear backpacks with two straps, one over each shoulder, rather than just one. Single straps may put stress on muscles and soft tissue, causing back pain or stress.