The snail effect – children’s schoolbags are linked to adult back pain

 

Half of children between the ages of six and twelve carry in their schoolbags an amount higher than deemed safe. Every day.

A new study carried out by researchers in Spain found that kids carry about a sixth of their body weight during a typical school day. The bags, usually stuffed with books and lunches, puts so much pressure on their developing spine, pelvis and hips that they are likely to suffer back pain as adults.

Researchers from the University of Granada in Spain found that 43 per cent of children who use rucksacks suffer back pain.

They examined the children in a biomechanics lab for weeks using both backpacks and pulley trolley bags.

Unsurprisingly, those using trolley bags are far less likely to develop back problems in adulthood.

Scientists said bags that are evenly distributed across a child's back such as a backpack does minimise the damage. However, they said these rugsacks are often too large, get filled to the brim and creates a 'snail effect' as children carry their whole lives on their back.

Posture is compromised by leaning forward and extending their necks.

Many schools encourage trolley bags for children - where do you stand on this issue?