Students of all ages seem to be carrying heavier loads. Extra weight may cause a rounding of the shoulders and an increased curve in the thoracic, or upper back region. As a result, the student may experience back, shoulder and neck pain. Use Wear both shoulder straps. Over time, this can cause lower and upper back pain, strained shoulders and neck, and even functional scoliosis, or curvature of the spine.
Teenage girls are especially susceptible to scoliosis.
Distribute weight evenly across your back. The more spread out a load is, the less strain it puts on any one part of your body. Load pack so the heaviest items are right next to your back. Snug shoulder straps so the pack fits close to the upper part of your back. The further a backpack s load is from your back, the more it pulls you backward and strains muscles between your shoulders.