Back pack statistics weigh heavy on local schools
By Tim O?Connell
A recent study of the habits of Year 5-13 students has revealed that many are shouldering the burden of future back pain by carrying over six kilograms to class each day. Early results in a national online survey undertaken by the University of Auckland?s Department of Statistics has indicated that one in five students carry more than five kilograms during the day. The information comes after concern was raised by the New Zealand Chiropractors? Association in February about the effect that unsuitable choices of bag-as well as excessive weight-had on children?s comfort level and posture. Locally, the findings have been met with interest by our local schools, with one Porirua secondary school finding that students are becoming innovative with ways to alleviate the strain. Mana College Assistant Principal Diana Wright says the use of travel bags has become an emerging trend amongst her pupils as a way of easing the stress on their backs. ?I have actually just come out of a class where one girl was carrying her books around in a trolley bag about the size of my briefcase with the pull out handle. ?She?d had back problems, so this was the only way she could carry her books. ?I?m sure if someone came up with a way to make it ?sexy?, then I?m sure we could get more students doing it.? Mrs Wright agrees that the issue is an important one for staff and students to consider, especially when some school books were often being left at school to lighten their load. Meanwhile, at Eastbourne?s Muritai School, the backs of Year 5-8 students appear to be enjoying lighter loads-thanks to students having their own personal desks for storage space. ?We?re not like secondary schools where students have to lug their books around with them?we have desks that students can store their things,? said teacher Raihania Chadwick. Mr Chadwick added that toys and electronic devices were not permitted at school, which also kept bags light. NZCA Spokesperson Dr Simon Kelly said that limiting loads to less than 15 percent of the child?s body weight can help prevent back pain and buying the right size bag is important, he said. ?If they?re leaning forward, the bag is too heavy, poorly fitted or badly packed-make sure heavier items are at the bottom of the bag, closer to the child?s centre of gravity,? he said.
