Does School Bag Weight Cause Scoliosis and Kyphosis?

It is not a Direct Cause, but a Triggering and Exacerbating Factor

Let's get to the heart of the matter right away: scientific studies, the heavy backpack that alone is not the main cause of structural (idiopathic) scoliosis or kyphosis shows. The main cause of structural scoliosis and kyphosis is a complex combination of genetic, developmental and environmental factors, and the exact cause is not yet known.

But this does not mean that heavy bags are innocent. A heavy bag is a source of stress inside the spine and plays a very important role, especially in children at risk:

Causes Posture (Posture) Disorder

A heavy bag, the body changes the center of gravity. If the child involuntarily moves his body forward or sideways to balance this weight. This is a temporary posture disorder. But when you stay in this position for a long time and regularly, the muscles and ligaments begin to adapt to this incorrect position and hunched posture (postural kyphosis) or asymmetrical posture may become permanent.

An Existing Spine Can Hide or Worsen Curvature

This is one of the critical points. A mild degree, not yet diagnosed scoliosis, or kyphosis, behind the posture disorder caused by the heavy bag can be hidden. When families tie the child's oblique posture to the bag, the main underlying problem gets the opportunity to move forward. In addition, an existing curvature is made even more so by the asymmetric load created by the heavy bag may increase.

Chronic Back, Back and Neck Pain Is the Most Common Cause

A heavy load causes the muscles, ligaments and joints in the spine to work and fatigue much more than usual. This is also muscle tension, spasm and chronic pain leads. This pain prevents the child from enjoying daily activities, reduces his concentration and negatively affects the quality of life.

So, What Should We Do? Prevention and Recommendations

Our goal is not to create fear, but to take conscious measures. Here are the golden rules for protecting your child:‍

Ideal Weight Rule: The weight of your child's bag 10% of your own body weight should not pass. (E.g.: 30 kg max 3 kg for a child)‍

Choosing and Using the Right Bag:

• Lightweight and Hanging: The bag should be made of lightweight materials, have wide and supported shoulder straps.
• Waist Belt: Bags with a waist belt provide balance by transferring the load from the shoulders and back to the pelvis (pelvis).
• Back Support: The back area should be padded and supported.

Hangers must be adjusted: The bag should be adjusted so that it stands in the middle of the child's back (between the waist and shoulders), it should not hang down.

Wheeled Bags: Especially for children who have been diagnosed with spinal curvature after surgery or backpacks on wheels are an excellent solution.

Collaboration with the School: Consult with teachers and school administration for the maintenance of a second set at school for heavy textbooks or the use of digital materials.

Final Word and Important Warning

Heavy bags alone do not cause scoliosis/kyphosis, but there is an existing problem can increase, hide and turn it into a painful condition. If your child observes complaints such as back pain, poor posture, shoulder asymmetry, or sloping posture, please don't just tie it to the bag. These symptoms may indicate an underlying structural problem.

Getting your child's spine health checked by contacting a traumatology or orthopedist for the most accurate diagnosis is the most critical step for early diagnosis and treatment.