Back Pack Guide 

WEST COBB EXCLUSIVE • BACK-TO-SCHOOL OFFER

Book Your FREE Backpack Fit Check

Bring your child and their backpack to 100% Chiropractic West Cobb for a quick fit check focused on backpack weight, strap placement and everyday comfort.

Available through September • Limited spots weekly

FREEBACKPACK
FIT CHECK
≤ 10% For this guide, we recommend keeping a backpack at about 10% of a child's body weight or less.

Enter body weight to estimate a 10% maximum.

1

Start With the Right Fit

  • Choose a backpack that is proportional to the student's height, not oversized “for extra room.”
  • The bag should sit close to the body and rest around the middle of the back.
  • The bottom should sit near the curve of the lower back and not hang more than about 4 inches below the waistline.
  • A padded back and multiple compartments can improve comfort and help organize the load.
2

Use Both Straps

  • Choose two broad, adjustable shoulder straps and keep them even in length.
  • Wear both straps every time. Carrying the pack over one shoulder can increase muscle strain.
  • Adjust straps so the backpack stays snug rather than swinging away from the body.
  • Use a chest or waist strap when available to help keep the load stable and distribute weight.
3

Pack Heavy Items Closest

  • Place textbooks, laptops and other heavy items closest to the back.
  • Balance items from side to side and use the backpack's compartments.
  • Clean the bag out weekly and remove items that are not needed that day.
  • Use a locker, classroom storage or a second set of books when available.
  • If school rules and the building layout allow it, a rolling backpack can be a helpful option when a student needs to carry a heavier load.
4

Lift It With Control

  • Set the backpack on a stable surface when possible before putting it on.
  • When lifting from the floor, bend the knees rather than folding at the waist.
  • A student should be able to stand upright and walk normally while wearing the pack.
  • If they must lean forward to support the load, the backpack is too heavy.

The 30-Second Backpack Check

✓ Both straps on
✓ Bag sits close to back
✓ Straps adjusted evenly
✓ Heavy items closest in
✓ No forward leaning
✓ Weight is ≤ 10%

Kid Tip: Lighten the Load

Make backpack clean-out part of the weekly routine. Keep only what is needed for the day, and if school rules allow, consider a rolling backpack for especially heavy days.

Watch for These Warning Signs

A backpack fit or load should be reconsidered if a student develops recurring neck, shoulder or back discomfort; has to lean forward while walking; notices numbness or tingling; has painful strap pressure; or has difficulty putting the backpack on and taking it off.

Persistent or significant pain deserves medical attention. Backpacks have not been shown to cause scoliosis or long-term spinal problems, but poor fit and excess weight can contribute to short-term back, neck and shoulder discomfort.

Chiropractor Inspected

Book your FREE Backpack Fit Check at 100% Chiropractic West Cobb and ask for a fit check. We can help review strap placement, load position and everyday carrying habits.

BackpackFit
Check
Educational sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Backpack Safety and Back-to-School Tips for Families.
This guide is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Recommendations may vary based on a child's size, health history, injury status and school requirements.

The Avenue West Cobb

3625 Dallas Hwy #840, Marietta, GA 30064
(678) 571-1203
100percentchiropractic.com/locations/west-cobb-ga

100% Chiropractic • Backpack Awareness
Healthy habits start with the small things you carry every day.