Back to school is always a busy time of the year with an array of emotions. As you change routines and adjust to new activities, there are precautions you can take to avoid injuries. Here are a few guidelines to follow to help prevent injuries:
- Backpacks
- make sure you have a backpack that fits correctly. It’s recommended to only carry 10-20% of your bodyweight, with the following suggestions (pathways.org):
| Body Weight (in pounds) | Backpack weight (in pounds) |
| 50 | 5-7 |
| 70 | 7-14 |
| 90 | 9-14 |
| 110 | 11-16 |
| 130 | 13-19 |
- If it is too large, it is difficult to maintain good posture when carrying your bag.
- Sitting
- sitting up straight with shoulder blades gently squeezed together don’t let your head sit forward
- avoiding resting on your elbows to prevent extra stress on the nerves in your arms
- Pen/pencils
- Use pencil grips or larger girth pens – to use less muscle force with writing. This can allow you to write longer with less discomfort or fatigue.
- Take breaks – if you are studying or writing papers and sitting for extended time periods, make sure to get up from your seat and take breaks frequently.
Have a great school year!