How To Carry A Backpack Safely To Avoid Strain?

Is it finally time to return to school? Or perhaps you’re going to be taking a hike through the woods? If you answered yes to one of these questions, there is a good chance that you’re going to be carrying a backpack. A backpack is great for keeping all of your items safe and nearby. However, there is also a chance that your backpack will put a lot of unnecessary strain on your body. Below, you will find tips for ensuring that you do not strain your back when carrying your backpack throughout the day.

Pack Wisely

First and foremost, you should be very cautious about weighing down your backpack. If you put too many items inside, you’re going to run into serious problems almost immediately. Figure out how much weight you can realistically carry around without hurting yourself. Then, make sure that you remain below this limit at all times. Too much weight will force you to take on too much risk.

Instead, take the time to decide what you need before you start your day so that you only carry the necessities. That’s especially pertinent when you’re carrying multiple textbooks to classes that you aren’t necessarily attending that day.

Spread Out The Weight

Another thing to remember is that it is pertinent to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed in the backpack. If you put everything to one side, there is a chance that your back will be contorted and this could lead to problems. Instead, you need to spread out the weight evenly. Be sure that all portions of the backpack weight the same. This will make it much easier for your spine to remain straight during your travels.

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Use Both Straps

Many people like using only one strap on their backpack. This might look much cooler, but it could create major problems. Using a single strap will cause one part of your body to carry most of the weight. This could put serious strain on that side of the body and it may lead to injuries. To ensure that you do not wind up hurt, you should always carry the backpack using both straps. This will ensure that both shoulders are working equally hard.

Adjust the shoulder straps so the backpack is high on your back and the shoulder straps are comfortable on your shoulders. The pack should not extend past your waist.

Close To The Body

It is always a good idea to keep the backpack close to your body. If the straps are loose, the bag will swing while you walk, and that actually increases the strain put on your back muscles. Carrying the backpack close to the body at all times is recommended, or consider some with sliding shoulder strap, we can recommend Salomon Trail brand because they have plenty of models with this feature. This can help to greatly decrease the amount of stress places on the muscles near the spine. In return, it will also decrease the likelihood that you’ll experience serious injury in the near future.

Backpack Guidelines for Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children should carry no more than 10 percent to 20 percent of their body weight in their backpack. That means that it should probably weigh 4 to 15 pounds at most. You may have to help lighten your child’s backpack. If you can’t lighten the load enough, consider a rolling backpack for your child.

Choose The Right Backpack

Finally, you should always choose the right backpack for your unique size and stature. An ergonomic bag will be far more comfortable and much less risky. Be sure to try on the bag for yourself, before making the investment. It is also a good idea to get in touch with a physical therapist. They’ll be able to help you find a backpack that will keep your back comfortable and safe throughout the journey. Always put in the extra effort, because it will pay off dividends in the long run and it’ll help you remain safe and injury free.