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As schools prepare to reopen, here are some tips for parents to help to lighten the load on their little shoulders: 

According to experts, heavy back packs lead to back injuries in children.

Data reveals that more than 13,700 kids aged 5 to 18 are being treated in hospitals and doctors' offices each year for such injury, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) advices parents and caregivers to pay close attention to children's posture before they start complaining of back pain.

"When used correctly, backpacks can be a good way to carry the necessities of the school day," Dr. Melanie Kinchen, an orthopedic surgeon and AAOS spokeswoman, said in an academy news release. "Backpack injuries are commonly caused by wearing overloaded backpacks, as well as lifting and carrying them incorrectly. Parents and teachers should guide kids to take preventative measures. Start by choosing a backpack that is appropriately sized for your child or have them use a rolling backpack as an alternative to carrying their heavy load on their shoulders."

The following guidelines are suggested by the academy to help children avoid pain and discomfort from carrying the backpacks.

• Usage of both straps while carrying a book bag is important to evenly distribute the weight. Also, tighten the straps and usage of a waist strap will be more helpful.
• Biggest items in the bag should be placed closest to the back, and anything too heavy should be removed
• Bend at the knees and use the legs when picking up a backpack.
• Carry only essential items and leave extra books at home or school whenever possible.

Children should be encouraged by parents and caregivers to speak up about any pain while wearing their backpack, particularly numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.

It is also important to make sure that the backpacks are of the right size for the children.

Parents are advised to observe any posture change in children or any marks on their shoulders from wearing their backpack.   

Lastly, in case the parents or the caregiver feels that the weight of the back pack is too much for children to carry, they can always go and try talking to schools about ways to lighten children's load, such as allowing them to stop at their lockers during the day or taking the weight of students' backpacks into account when preparing lessons.