Physical therapists say with the new school year starting it is important to make sure children wear their backpacks properly.

Wilton physical therapist Heather Strohk says when children complain of a hurt back, the first thing a parent should look at is their backpack. She says heavy backpacks worn improperly can increase a child's risk of spine damage.

Strohk says the bag should be no wider then the child's back and the straps should be tightened so the bag is even with the child's center of gravity. She says down the line a heavy backpack can cause postural deformities like kyphosis, rounded shoulders.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says a backpack should be no more than 20 percent of child's body.

Related Information:American Academy of Orthopaedic SurgeonsAmerican Physical Therapy Assocation