Backpacks take toll on students

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WIVB) - Kids these days, they're overloaded, literally. That's right, book-heavy backpacks are really taking a toll.

It's back to the books for kids across western New York. That could mean back to back pain for some.

Niagara County Chiropractic’s Dr. David Pacana said, "Every year I see more parents bringing their children into me, because of upper back and neck pain."

Pacana says it's a classic tale of students being overloaded, literally.

Pacana said, "Through the weight of books the students are carrying around, we're seeing many spinal problems, muscular problems."

"Typically we are seeing kids are putting up to 15 percent of their body weight into backpacks,” said Pacana.

Yes, backpacks are said to be an accomplice in this epidemic. But, chiropractors like Dr. Pacana say students can cut the risk, just by wearing backpacks the right way, instead of the so-called ‘stylish way.’

Pacana said, "It seems more kids wear backpacks on one shoulder, more of a fashion statement."

"Utilize both straps, strapping it around the shoulders or both sides, having the backpack centered in your back,” said Pacana.

This will help cut down on over-use, but lets face it, this is reality and kids rarely choose safety over style.

Pacana said, "You'll probably never see your kid wear a back-pack properly. However, the best thing you can do to combat that would be to have your child try and switch. Instead of throwing it on your right shoulder strap, maybe try it on your left shoulder with one strap."

Before your kids run to catch the bus, here's a little test for all you parents.

"Look to see what's in the kids backpacks, if it's too heavy for the parent, it's definitely heavy for the child,” said Pacana.