Children who carry a backpack that is too heavy or not packed properly could be putting their spines at risk, parents are warned.

The message is part of the "Pack it light, pack it right" series of television public service announcements that were announced Monday by the British Columbia Chiropractic Association, with support from the provincial government's Health Department. 

Fashion shouldn't be the priority in choosing a backpack, said Dr. Don Nixdorf, executive director of the BC Chiropractic Association.
(CBC)

"Just like other choices, backpacks come in all types of sizes and fashions, but don't be fooled by the latest trend or cheapest pack," said Dr. Don Nixdorf, executive director of the BC Chiropractic Association. "Function, form and comfort take precedence over fashion on this one."

Promoting awareness of the potential problems for children carrying backpacks that are too heavy is an important part of spinal health, agreed Stan Hagen, B.C.'s minister of tourism, sport and the arts.

This year, shoulder bags with one strap are fashionable, but aren't the healthiest option because they can cause strain to one side, Nixdorf said. A more traditional backpack, loaded up to weigh no more than 10 per cent of a child's body weight, is better.

A backpack should have wide shoulder straps as well as a waist belt to stop the pack from swinging around, and heavy items should be stored close to the body.

Often spine and back complaints in children are ignored as growing pains, but should not be distracting from learning or participating in fitness activities, said Dr. Jim Cooper, president of the association.

"Growing shouldn't be painful," said Cooper. "If your child is complaining of spine and related pains take the time to talk to them and understand what may be the cause."

By the time most kids are teenagers, over half will experience spine and related back pain episodes, the association said.