When is the Kindle going to come to schools?

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Those large backpacks are hurting kids backs.
The luggage style backpack, while better on the back, is seen as "uncool" by the typical teenager.



MRIs Show the Effects of Heavy Backpacks on Kids’ Bodies: "

We've heard about the problem of heavy backpacks. Kids today are often burdened by having to carry too many books, and may even experience back pain.

Now, a new study using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans shows that typical backpack loads can indeed put significant stress on kids' spines. Researchers at the University of California, San Diego imaged the spines of kids while they wore 9, 18, and 26 pound bags (one at a time, of course). The scans showed that the heavier the bags, the more there was compression of the discs in the spine. Heavier bags also caused increased curvature of the lower spine in kids. (For the study, researchers measured the kids as they carried the bags using both straps; but the researchers point out that in reality, kids usually sling backpacks over one shoulder, making the strain on their backs that much worse.)

While most early-grade school age kids don't have the carry the load that say, middle-school and upper-school kids usually have to do, parents can make sure they take steps now to prevent problems as kids get more books in their bags. Check out these tips for preventing backpack injuries in kids. And if your child complains that his backpack is too heavy, take it seriously.

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