Lifestyle

How To Help Your Child Avoid Back Pain With A Backpack

Published

3 years ago

March 4, 2022

Most children use backpacks for school. However, they can cause back pain and problems if certain guidelines aren’t followed. Remember the tips mentioned here so your child is comfortable throughout the day!

Look For Features That Reduce Back Pain

There aren’t a lot of studies that agree on the features that backpacks should have to reduce back pain. But parents can look for the following backpack features to ensure that the product won’t hurt the child’s back:

The material used for the backpack should be canvas, which is the lightest material.
The back should be well padded so it sits comfortably on the child’s back.
There should be several small compartments inside so everything stays organized.
New backpacks often have wheels and a retractable handle so the backpack can be wheeled around.
If your child has a laptop, consider using a separate bag so they don’t need to have too much weight on their back.

Teach Child How To Wear And Load

Buying a backpack with the proper features will usually help the child avoid problems. But wearing and loading the backpack correctly ensures they will stay comfortable. Some tips include:

The child should use both straps and wear it on their back, not slung on one shoulder. Putting too much weight on a single shoulder can lead to discomfort and pain over time.
Put the heaviest items in the bottom of the backpack so the weight is distributed evenly.
Make sure the straps are snug on the child’s back so the load doesn’t move around as they walk.
The child should lift the pack with their legs. Bending over to pick it up can injure the back.

When Is The Backpack Too Heavy?

Even if you choose an ideal backpack for your child, there comes a time when the bag may be too heavy. Some doctors recommend limiting the weight of the pack to 10% of their body weight.

If the child weighs 100 pounds, they shouldn’t carry more than 10 pounds. Of course, these rules are often ignored by parents and students. But students who carry the heaviest backpacks are often the ones who complain of back pain.

Here’s a helpful graphic that shows what a heavy backpack can do to a growing child’s back and neck.

The good news is that even if the backpack is too heavy, it probably won’t cause long-term damage. But it’s uncomfortable, so that’s a good enough reason to keep the weight and size down.

If it seems your child carries a lot of weight every day in the bag, talk to their teacher about how to reduce the load. Perhaps you can keep an extra copy of heavy textbooks at home, etc.

Be Proactive About Backpack and Back Pain

If you remember the tips highlighted above, your child should have a comfortable backpack void of discomfort.

However, it’s important to check in with your child often to find out if they are dealing with any back pain from their backpack over the weeks and months.

Also, remember to help the child select the smallest backpack that is large enough to fit everything they need each day, but not so big it hurts the back.

You also should talk to teachers to find strategies so the child doesn’t need to carry a lot of heavy books every day. Perhaps having a set of books in class and heavier ones at home might work.

Some parents scan copies of pages from books and assignments for home use, so not so many need to be carried home every day.

Your child probably needs a backpack for school, but remembering these guidelines will ensure their back doesn’t hurt all day.

Lifestyle

How to Spot the Signs Your Elevator Needs Servicing

Published

5 hours ago

June 17, 2025

Michelle Langton

In any commercial or residential building, elevators play a crucial role in providing safe, efficient vertical transport. However, like any mechanical system, lifts are subject to wear and tear over time. Knowing when your elevator needs servicing can prevent breakdowns, ensure passenger safety, and prolong the life of the equipment. If you’re responsible for a building’s maintenance, here are the key signs that your elevator may be due for professional attention.

Unusual Noises: One of the most noticeable warning signs is strange or unexpected noises during operation. Grinding, clanking, squealing, or banging can indicate issues with the motor, pulleys, or other internal mechanisms. These sounds should never be ignored, as they often precede more serious mechanical failures.

Jerky or Delayed Movement: An elevator should start and stop smoothly. If you or others notice jerky movements, sudden jolts, or a delay in starting after pressing a floor button, it’s time for an inspection. These issues may point to problems with the motor, control system, or even worn-out cables.

Frequent Breakdowns or Malfunctions: If your elevator has experienced more than one unplanned shutdown or glitch in recent months, don’t chalk it up to coincidence. Regular failures often signal deeper mechanical or electrical problems that require immediate attention. Relying on reactive repairs alone can end up costing more in the long run.

Doors Not Opening or Closing Properly: Misaligned or slow-moving doors are more than just an inconvenience—they can be a hazard. If elevator doors fail to open or close properly, or reverse mid-motion without an obstruction, it could indicate issues with sensors, tracks, or door motors.

Lights Flickering or Buttons Not Responding: Interior lights that dim or flicker, non-responsive buttons, or inconsistent floor indicators often point to electrical issues within the lift. These should be addressed swiftly, as faulty electrical systems can quickly escalate into safety concerns.

Longer Wait Times: If your elevator takes significantly longer than usual to arrive or transition between floors, this could indicate wear in the lift’s traction system, or outdated software that needs updating. In commercial settings, delays can also impact accessibility and productivity.

Unpleasant Odours or Overheating: Overheating elevator machinery may produce a burning smell, which is a serious red flag. This can be caused by friction in overworked components, old lubricant, or faulty wiring—each of which requires urgent servicing.

Outdated Inspection Certificates: All lifts should undergo regular inspections, and buildings must comply with maintenance regulations. If your lift’s inspection certificate is expired or nearing renewal, it’s time to book a comprehensive check-up—whether or not any visible problems exist.

Stay Proactive with Routine Maintenance

Spotting these signs early is key to avoiding costly repairs or downtime. Scheduling regular professional maintenance can ensure your lift remains safe, compliant, and reliable. For an expert lift service in Melbourne, consider reaching out to specialists who understand the unique demands of local commercial and residential buildings. With proper care, your lift system can operate smoothly for many years to come.

When it comes to elevator maintenance, prevention is always better than cure. By staying alert to these warning signs and investing in timely servicing, you’re not just protecting equipment—you’re also safeguarding the well-being of every person who steps into your lift.