International Backpack Awareness Day Focuses on Proper Usage, Oct. 27

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) and Boston University Department of Occupational Therapy are once again partnering to promote International Backpack Awareness Day on Friday, October 27, with the aim of educating students, parents, teachers, administrators, and the public about the serious health effects from backpacks that are too heavy or worn improperly. Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) and occupational therapy students across the country hold mini events promoting the day.  

Millions of students use backpacks. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that from 2019 to 2021, there were an estimated annual average of 1,200 backpack-related injuries to children under 19 years old treated in emergency rooms. 

AOTA Interim Executive Director Charles H. Jeffers II said of the partnership with Boston University, “We are most grateful for Dr. Jacobs and her students’ work to keep the spotlight on backpack safety. Her expertise in ergonomics and passion for the project has truly fueled awareness.” 

Research shows children carrying overloaded and improperly worn packs are likely to experience neck, shoulder, and back pain; adverse effects on posture and the developing spine; and compromised breathing and fatigue. Some of these injuries continue into adulthood. 

“Backpacks appear to be the ‘life support system’ for most students. OTPs have expertise to help these students with selecting, packing, and wearing their backpacks in a safe manner,” says International Backpack Awareness Day spokesperson, Dr. Karen Jacobs, OT, EdD, OTR, CPE, FAOTA Associate Dean, Digital Learning & Innovation, Clinical Professor Program Director, On-line Post-professional Occupational Therapy Programs, Boston University and AOTA member.  

This video produced by Boston University shows the proper way to pack and wear a backpack. 

Backpack Awareness Day was launched in 1998 by the American Occupational Therapy Association in a partnership with L.L. Bean and has grown to become an important public health initiative for occupational therapy practitioners and educators across the country. 

The growing awareness of potential long-term problems to children has resulted in increased medical research, and more coverage of the issue in mainstream publications as well as medical journals.