Half of all children complain about back pain by the time they’re 14 and doctors have reported a rise in spinal abnormalities. For this reason experts have warned that the weight of heavy schoolbags is causing irreversible damage to children's backs. It is thought that children carry much more weight in their bags than they ever used to. Heavy books, sports kits, packed lunches and even laptops are all contributing to the problem.
Sean McDougall of the charity BackCare, said: “Many children are carrying their bags on one shoulder or are increasingly carrying them on the crook of their elbow, so are placing a great strain on the spine.”
The charity BackCare claims many youngsters are carrying as much as 20 per cent of their weight to and from school each day!
Children are being urged to carry only what they really need for each day and to ensure that they wear their backpacks on both shoulders.
Do you have a very heavy schoolbag? Should schools have more lockers for heavy books and laptops?
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