As summer winds down and kids head back to the classroom, it’s the perfect time to make sure they’re set up for a healthy, injury-free school year. We often see a spike in preventable issues during this time—especially related to backpacks, playground falls, and sports injuries.
Watch the Backpack Weight
One of the most common complaints from school-age children is back and shoulder pain caused by heavy backpacks. A good rule of thumb: your child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10-15% of their body weight. Make sure they’re using both shoulder straps and adjust them so the bag sits close to the body and above the waist. If the school’s requirements for how much stuff your child should be carrying around is too much, consider a backpack with wheels.
Playground & PE Injuries
Recess and gym class are great for movement and fun, but they also come with risk. Sprains, strains, and minor falls can lead to lingering pain if not addressed. Encourage proper warm-ups and make sure your child wears supportive, well-fitting shoes.
Fall Sports Are Back
Whether it’s soccer, football, or cross-country, fall sports can be intense. Ensure your child has a pre-season physical, is conditioned for activity, and knows the importance of stretching and recovery. If an injury does happen, early intervention with physical therapy can make all the difference in recovery time.
Posture & Screen Time
With more schoolwork done on tablets and laptops, poor posture can sneak up quickly. Help your child set up a healthy study space with a proper chair and desk height—and remind them to take regular breaks to move around.
As you check off your back-to-school to-do list, don’t forget your child’s physical wellness. If you have concerns about posture, pain, or injury, our physical therapy team is here to help your child stay active and thrive all school year long. NO REFERRAL NEEDED!
