The U.S. News and World Report – Neel Anand, M.D.
“Backpacks are one of the most practical ways for children, teenagers (and even adults) to lug around all of their daily items. Especially for school, backpacks are the best way to transport books, binders, pencil boxes and lunches. Compared with shoulder bags, messenger bags or purses, backpacks are the wiser option because the strong muscles of the back and the abdomen help support the weight of the pack. When worn correctly, the weight is evenly distributed across the shoulders and the back, reducing the risk of shoulder or neck strain that can sometimes result from carrying a purse or any other bag on just one side of the body. However, if worn incorrectly or filled with too much weight, backpacks can be a significant cause of back pain and muscle strain.” (more)