Can a heavy backpack cause scoliosis in schoolchildren? Facts parents need to know

When parents pack their children for school, they try to choose a comfortable backpack so that it does not lead to back problems. Schoolchildren carry a lot of textbooks and notebooks every day, and the backpack should help them feel comfortable and convenient.

PubMed has published a study by scientists that shows how the weight of a backpack affects children's backs. Most believe that a backpack can lead to spinal deformities.

Scientists reduced the weight of the school bag in children from elementary school, and some of them began to complain less about back pain, while the rest of the children did not notice the difference.

The American Academy of Pediatrics assures that the weight of a backpack should not exceed 20% of the child's weight. The straps should be wide and adjusted so that the bottom of the bag does not fall below the waist.

This will help avoid unnecessary strain on the neck and back muscles, which can cause children to feel pain.

Scoliosis is a very common disease among schoolchildren - it is an S or C-shaped curvature of the spine, which can lead to serious complications from the respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems.

But according to scientists, a briefcase cannot cause this disease.

The main factor in poor posture is prolonged sitting in class, or at a computer or smartphone.

On the contrary, it is better to wear a backpack rather than a bag to avoid scoliosis. Because the bag loads only one part of the body, which leads to curvature.

You also need to exercise to stretch your muscles after sitting for a long time.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL published scientists' explanations of why it is harmful to constantly pull in your stomach. Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL's Telegram and Viber channels to keep up with the latest developments.