Healthy Connections
PrintA guide to better health from Backus
August 2010
Shuttling backpacks can be pains in the neck
When backpacks are too heavy or worn improperly they can cause children to develop shoulder, neck and back pain, so it is important for parents to help prevent this.
Backus Rehabilitation Services Physical Therapist Kristin Hilliard will discuss how to fit backpacks properly and how much weight children should be carrying. As part of the presen- tation on Aug. 12, she will also give tips on making exercise fun and safe. She will offer ideas for getting children more active, as well as discuss what types of protective equipment is needed for certain sports and activities.
If you want to go
- What: Learn about backpack safety and keeping exercise safe as part of the Enjoy LIFE Project
- When: Aug. 12 from 6:30-8 p.m.
- Where: Plainfield Recreational Center, 482 Norwich Road, Plainfield
- For more information or to regis- ter for the program, call 860-889-8331, ext. 2495. Find out more about upcoming programs at backushospital.org/enjoylife
“Backpack Safety and Keeping Exercise Fun and Safe” is the August Enjoy LIFE (Lifelong Investment in Fitness and Exercise) program, a collaboration between Backus Hospital and the Plainfield Recreation Department.
Most doctors and physical therapists recommend that kids carry no more than 10% to 15% of their body weight in their packs. So, for example, an elementary student who weighs 50 pounds should keep the weight in a backpack between 5 and 10 pounds or less, and a high school student who weighs 90 pounds should keep the weight in a backpack between 9 and 13 1/2 pounds or less.