It's that time again-time to start getting kids ready to head back to school. St. Luke's therapists want to ensure that when you purchase a backpack, you keep a few things in mind to help keep your little one without injury this school year (or in the long term!).

Check out this St. Luke's video to learn more and see our quick and easy tips below:

• Pick a backpack size that matches the size of the child
• Look for wide straps to distribute the weight across the shoulders
• Choose backpacks with a waist strap to distribute weight across the hip

Have the right backpack? Great! Pack those heavy books toward the back and lighter items in front. Get good practice at home with your child before school starts and tell them to alert you or a teacher if they feel pain from carrying their books and supplies. 

Talk to your pediatrician for more tips on preventing injury from incorrect backpack use.  

To learn more about the services available at St. Luke's, click here .