Back Problems

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - It may be just another school supply, but it's one that may be causing extra stress on your child.

It may be colorful and trendy, but backpacks could cause your child pain or even scoliosis

A backpack should never be more than 15 percent of your child's body weight and it should not rest lower than the base of the child's back.

That's why the Hand and Upper Extremity Rehab Clinic in Terre Haute is offering a free Backpack Safety 101 program for parents.

Occupational Therapist Ashim Bakshi said it may come to a surprise for some parents, but it's one that should be taken seriously.

"The muscular skeletal system continues to grow during this age group so it's important that you don't put undo stress on all these parts," Bakshi said.

Children wearing the wrong backpack can start feeling pain after 3 to 4 months.