It is a common sight to see children carrying heavy backpacks to school, and with the recent advancements in technology, gadgets like smartphones and tablets have become an integral part of their lives.

However, these things may cause concern for children’s bones.

Backpacks

Heavy backpacks can cause a strain on the back, neck, and shoulders, leading to musculoskeletal pain and discomfort.

According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, carrying a backpack weighing more than 10% of a child’s body weight can cause chronic back pain, while a backpack weighing more than 15% can cause acute and long-term discomfort.

Backpacks can also cause postural problems, with carrying them incorrectly for extended periods of time leading to a hunched posture. This can cause damage to the spine and affect the overall body alignment.

Parents can take measures to reduce the impact of backpacks on their children’s health by ensuring they choose a well-fitted backpack with padded straps, distribute the weight of the backpack evenly, and pack only essential items in the backpack.

Gadgets

The rise of technology has brought with it a rise in the use of gadgets like smartphones and tablets.

These items can cause harm to a child’s bones when used for extended periods, leading to what is known as “tech neck.” This is when the neck muscles become strained from repeatedly looking down at a device.

Tech neck can cause headaches, neck pain, and reduced range of motion in the neck. In severe cases, it can even lead to a hunch in the upper back, which again affects body alignment and leads to joint and muscle pain.

Parents can help children avoid tech neck by encouraging them to take frequent breaks from using devices, encouraging them to hold their device at eye level or use a stand, and encouraging them to be mindful of their posture when using electronic devices.

Conclusion

The use of backpacks and gadgets among children is a growing concern for their bone health. To ensure children’s wellbeing, parents must take measures to reduce the impact of these items on their children’s bones.

Parents can help children avoid musculoskeletal pain and discomfort by ensuring the backpack is well-fitted and packed with only essential items, while frequent breaks and good posture when using electronic devices can help prevent tech neck.