The doctor told about the consequences of an incorrectly selected school briefcase

When choosing a school backpack, parents primarily look at ergonomics, elementary school students choose models with their favorite characters, and high school students focus on stylish design. An uncomfortable or age-inappropriate briefcase can cause muscle strain. Olga Ulankina, an expert doctor at the Hemotest laboratory, told Izvestia on August 12 which characteristics of the main student accessory would help maintain the correct body position.

"In early September, children go to school in light windbreakers, but by October they have to switch to warmer jackets. The added weight of outerwear, textbooks and notebooks, and replacement shoes will create an even greater strain on the spine," she noted.

According to the expert, when buying a school briefcase, it is important to take into account its weight and shape. According to GOST, an empty satchel for primary school students should weigh no more than 700 g, and for students in grades 5-11 - no more than 1 kg. The manufacturer must indicate the weight of the product on the label. But the main rule applies to an already filled backpack — its weight should not exceed 10% of the child's weight.

What will change in schools from September 1: for children, parents and teachers

The main changes will affect the way of communication and school uniforms.

Regardless of the child's age, it is better to give preference to backpacks with a rigid frame — they retain their shape even when empty and do not sag under the weight of educational materials, the doctor emphasized. For younger students, especially first-graders, a satchel with an orthopedic backrest made of breathable mesh materials will be the best choice.

"Due to the stable shape, the load on the spine is evenly distributed. Materials with perforations provide back ventilation, prevent overheating, excessive sweating and skin irritation, even when wearing a satchel for a long time during the school day," Ulankina said.

According to her, it is better to choose classic models with two shoulder straps than with one. In the upper part, the width of the straps should be at least 3.5–4 cm, in the lower part — at least 2-2.5 cm. The straps should be soft and adjustable so as not to put pressure on the shoulders and not disrupt blood circulation.

"Special attention should be paid to how a child carries a satchel. If you constantly hold a briefcase on one shoulder or in one hand, a muscle imbalance may occur — some muscles will overexert, while others will weaken. This can cause aching neck pain and headaches due to overexertion of the trapezius muscles," the expert said.

The specialist also noted that it is important to ensure that the student wears a satchel on both shoulders, while the lower edge of the satchel should be at the waist, and not sag to the middle of the hips. Regular violation of this rule will create not just temporary discomfort, but a serious threat to the musculoskeletal system.

It is necessary to check the presence of reflective elements on the selected portfolio. They will make the child more visible on the road in the dark. It is better if the satchel itself is made of durable, bright-colored material with a water-repellent coating, Ulankina added.

On July 25, deputies of the State Duma drafted a bill according to which parents of schoolchildren will be paid annually an amount equal to the subsistence minimum in connection with the beginning of the school year. According to the law under consideration, a payment is proposed for each student in the family.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.