Going back to school means seeing old friends and making new ones, learning new skills, and returning to routines and schedules. It also means close contact with other kids, which increases the chance of getting sick or having an accident.
That’s why it’s essential to understand the most common back-to-school injuries and illnesses.
Common Back-to-School Injuries
- Falls – Falls are the leading cause of injury among children. A fall can happen anywhere, from a crowded hallway to tripping over a backpack or slipping on a spill in the cafeteria. Injuries resulting from falls can vary in severity, from minor bruises and sprains to more serious fractures.
- Playground Accidents – Playgrounds are great places for kids to run off energy, but they’re also the site for many accidents. Common playground injuries include bruises, cuts, scrapes, sprains, and fractures. However, broken bones, dislocations, and concussions can also occur.
- Sports Injuries – Participating in school sports increases the potential risk of injuries. Common sports injuries include pulled muscles, sprained ankles, fractures, and concussions.
- Backpack-related Injuries – Carrying heavy backpacks can strain muscles and joints, leading to back, shoulder, and neck pain. Over time, this strain can cause musculoskeletal issues like spinal misalignment and posture problems. To prevent backpack-related injuries, weigh your child with and without their full backpack and make sure it doesn’t weigh more than 10% of your child’s weight. Also, encourage your child to wear both straps and remove unnecessary items.
