MADISION, Wis. - As children gear up for the new school year, ensuring their backpacks are safe and comfortable is essential to prevent back pain and injuries.

Local clinical pediatric orthopedic specialist, Lindsay Boyke Lohmann at UW Health, emphasizes the importance of a well-fitted backpack.

Kids often pick backpacks based on style rather than fit, but size and support matter.

Choose a backpack that fits the child well; avoid backpacks that are excessively large, especially for young children.

Opt for backpacks with two thick straps to distribute weight evenly.

Backpacks should be worn higher on the back for better support.

Some backpacks with chest and waist clip straps can help balance weight more effectively.

Dr. Lohmann also reminds parents that children should not carry mor

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