Playtimes HK Magazine Winter Issue 2018/2019 | Page 68

education
lighter clothing in the summer and thicker
clothing in the winter. This prevents chafing
caused by bags swinging from side to
side, she explains.
Lighten the load
Ten pounds in a backpack is equivalent to
70 pounds of force on a student’s spine,
according to a new study by Dr Kenneth
K Hansraj, Chief of Spine Surgery at New
York Spine Surgery and Rehabilitation
Medicine. Put simply, one book is equal
to seven books on a neutral spine and, for
students whose spines tilt forward by 20
degrees, one book is equal to 12 books
to the spine. Dr Hansraj recommends
students only pack what is necessary in
their backpacks. This may be difficult for
hoarders, he notes.
Abby advises heavier items should be
placed in the centre of the backpack to
ensure students don’t lean to one side. If
a backpack is heavier than 20 per cent of
a child’s body weight, she recommends a
rolling backpack with wheels.
Teachers can also be reminded that
students should not carry too many items
in their bag, Charlotte comments. “Our
teachers do not give students multiple
text books for homework purposes. We
give minimal homework so bags are light
and children aren’t sitting for prolonged
periods of time after school. Year One to
Year Six students have trays and Middle
Year students have lockers to store their
learning materials at school.”
Se ek help
The Plumb Line assessment is used as a
reference of alignment for the body when
examining posture. “When you stand
against the wall, the back of your head, your
shoulder blades, your bottom and your heels
should be touching the wall,” Abby explains.
If this is not the case, if your child
bends forward and you see a curve,
or if your child complains of pain, seek
professional help. “Addressing postural
habits, pelvis alignment, teaching
children how to sit and how to carry
their backpacks can prevent and fix
backpack injuries. Be assured that if the
issue is postural, it can be fixed,” Abby
concludes.
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Nike Elemental Kids Backpack
Features padded adjustable
shoulder straps.
$209, www.nike.com.hk
Nikidom roller
Hailing from Spain these ergonomic
bags are designed for children age 7 to
12. The revolutionary roller schoolbag
has 17.5 cm wheels that are quieter and
make it easier to go up and down stairs.
$880, https://shop.freemax.com.hk
Dustin Series Ergonomic
School Backpack
Designed for primary school students
it has a large top loading compartment
for text books and a unique insulated
rice box compartment.
$788, www.mykags.com
Ergobag Prime
This bag is adjustable to fit the back
length of a child up to 150cm. The
waist flaps stay in place, ensuring the
strain is taken off the child’s back.
$1,280 www.ergoboss.com
LE
Pressure Free School Bag
Dr Kong school bags are designed
using a pressure free concept. The
middle back plate is hollow, providing
a pressure-free space and thereby
protecting the spine. An online guide
helps parents select the correct size
bag. $499, www.dr-kong.com.hk