Physical Therapy and Backpack Safety - continued

The way the weight is distributed and the absorption
properties of backpacks are some of the key features to consider when selecting and safely wearing a backpack.

The load in the backpack can be more evenly distributed across the body by wearing both shoulder straps and waist belts, using backpacks with separate compartments and loading the backpack so that the heaviest items are closest to the body. Choosing backpacks with broad and padded straps that fit snuggly to the body also help absorb load. The addition of a back support piece provides an advantage with the load positioned next to the body.

Physical therapists play a role not only treating the pain caused by backpack-related injuries but also a preventative role by educating patients on backpacks and help correcting your posture.