A separate study from SPINE (Volume 35, pp 83-88) found that the weight of backpacks significantly affected the rate of back pain in children. According to the study, carrying a loaded backpack with books, folders, and other supplies frequently caused a compression of spinal discs in the lower spine. When additional weight was added to these backpacks, children had to continually adjust their posture to carry the weight as comfortably as they could. Unfortunately, these altered positions resulted in disc pressure, causing low back pain. SPINE’s study concluded that a large portion of low back pain sufferers presented changes in their lumbar spine by MRI scan. They were carrying anywhere from 10 to 20 percent of their bodyweight.
Texas Back Institute recommends that a child’s backpack should, at maximum, weigh no more than 10-15% of their body weight before risking back pain. Likewise, it is crucial the backpack has an even distribution of weight by utilizing both straps over their shoulders. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder will force the child to lean to the side for extended periods of time under the weight of the pack. This will cause the spine to curve and increase the force on the lumbar discs, creating low back pain and discomfort. 
The position and condition of the backpack is just as important. For example, backpacks should be replaced when the thick padding of the straps has worn down. The bottom of the pack should rest comfortably in the lower back’s curve and never hang too far past the waist. Helping parents and their children become aware of these crucial details will assist children in alleviating their back pain and lower the chronic low back pain statistic in adults.
About Texas Back Institute: Texas Back Institute and its team of spine surgeons, specializing in conditions from Scoliosis to Degenerative Disc Disease and Myelopathy, use experience, talent, state-of-the-art equipment, and technology to provide superior and innovative care for patients who suffer from back and neck pain, which has kept patients flying out of town to receive care from Texas Back spine surgeon in Dallas.
From its beginning in 1977, the goal to perform as a center of excellence while integrating the best of science and education with the best business practices has served Texas Back Institute well and continues to be the backbone of TBI’s success. Over 40 years later, Texas Back Institute is one of the largest freestanding multidisciplinary academic spine centers in the world. Utilizing the latest technological advancements and medical breakthroughs, leading and participating in numerous FDA trials, developing surgeons through its fellowship program and employing an expert medical team and compassionate support staff, Texas Back Institute remains dedicated to helping patients get back to life.
I have been saying this for years. With the availability of technology, it is ridiculous that our kids’ backpacks weigh 40lbs plus!