While waist and back pain are the most common spine-related problems in school-age children, spinal curvatures (scoliosis, kyphosis) and neck pain can also be seen, although less frequently. School bags are one of the leading causes of spine problems in school-age children. Therefore, there are some points to consider when choosing and carrying a bag. Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Asst. Assoc. Dr. Levent Arslan drew attention to the issues that families should pay attention to.
1) Bag weight: The total weight of the bag should not exceed 10-15% of the child's weight. For this reason, the empty weight of the preferred bag should be as low as possible, that is, the material it is made of should be light. In addition, the materials taken to school should be checked daily and unnecessary ones should be removed. If, despite these, the bag cannot be reduced to the appropriate weight, the teacher and/or school administration should be contacted and a personalized locker should be arranged at the school. If the weight cannot be reduced and personal locker arrangement is not possible, then sliding bags should be preferred.
2) How to carry the bag; The bag should always be carried on two shoulders. One-sided carrying may cause the spine to bend towards the weight-bearing side, i.e. scoliosis. It is even claimed that such misuse may pave the way for some spine problems such as herniated disc in the future. In addition, the bag's straps and back supports should be sufficient and soft to reduce shoulder and back pain. Bags with thin straps can cause strain on the muscles above the shoulder, which can lead to injuries. The length of the shoulder straps should be adjusted according to the student. It should not be left too long, it should be short so that the weight of the bag does not hang below the waist.
3) Placing the materials in the bag: Heavy and large books, notebooks or other materials should be placed in the compartment closest to the back. Other lightweight materials should be placed in the middle and rear compartments. Care should be taken to ensure a balanced distribution when using the side pockets, if any.
4) Table and Chair Selection: It may cause spine problems in school-age children. Another factor that can cause problems is the selection of tables and chairs. Even though tables and chairs of standard sizes are used in schools, the school administration should be contacted to ensure optimal conditions suitable for the average height of the class. Choosing a desk and chair for the child to use at home should be made carefully. The height of the table to be purchased should be approximately 40-45% of the child's height. The chair must be height and back adjustable, its height must be high enough to allow the child's knees to be 90°, and the back support must be in a position that allows the child to sit upright.
5) Appropriate Sitting Training Should Be Given: Suitable for children. Sitting training must be given. While writing, one should not lean his body forward too much and should sit as upright as possible. Another problem that should not be overlooked here is whether there is a vision problem. If, despite all warnings, the child leans forward too much while writing or reading a book, an eye examination should be performed.
6) Use of Technological Devices Should Be Minimized: Children's use of computers and tablets outside of school and lessons should be minimized. should be reduced to a minimum, and instead they should be encouraged to do sports in their remaining time. In this way, back, waist and shoulder muscles will be strengthened, possible pain and permanent damage will be prevented, and children will have a healthier school term.
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