By Suleiman Tajudeen
…continue from last week
CITIZENS COMPASS— Implement weight restrictions: Schools can set limits on bag weight.
Promote ergonomic bags: Encourage use of bags with padded straps and multiple compartments.
Provide lockers or storage: Adequate storage facilities can reduce bag weight.
Educate students: Teach proper lifting techniques and encourage regular breaks.
Encourage digital resources: Utilize digital textbooks and notes to reduce weight.
Develop school policies: Establish policies to address bag weight and storage.
Involve parents: Educate parents on the risks and prevention strategies.
Monitor bag weight: Regularly check bag weights to ensure compliance.
Provide alternatives: Offer alternatives to heavy bags, such as backpacks with wheels.
Involve teachers: Encourage students to follow the school timetable, in order to reduce the number of books that students will bring to school.
Collaborate with healthcare professionals: Work with healthcare professionals to develop prevention strategies to help students that have issues with mental health conditions and medical problems.
Management strategies
Regular exercise: Strengthen back and shoulder muscles through exercise.
Proper bag packing: Pack only essentials and use both straps.
Use of technology: Utilize digital textbooks and notes to reduce weight.
Seek medical attention: Address musculoskeletal issues promptly.
Physical therapy: Consider physical therapy to address musculoskeletal problems.
Health education: Relating to health implications of carrying heavy bags among secondary school students.
Pain management: Use pain management techniques, such as stretching and relaxation.
Ergonomic furniture: Use ergonomic furniture to reduce strain.
Break reminders: Encourage students to take regular breaks.
Posture correction: Encourage proper posture to reduce strain.
Student support groups: Establish support groups for students experiencing discomfort.
References
Adeyemi, R. A., & Asogwa, A. A. (2018). Weight-related musculoskeletal problems among secondary school students in Nigeria. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 30(5), 661-665. doi: 10.1589/jpts.30.661
Dockrell, S., & Simms, C. (2011). The weight of schoolbags carried by Irish schoolchildren. International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 41(6), 647-653. doi: 10.1016/j.ergon.2011.07.002
Mackenzie, W. G., & Sampath, S. (2017). The impact of backpack weight on musculoskeletal pain in adolescents. Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics, 37(5), e317-e322. doi: 10.1097/BPO.0000000000000971
For questions and medical consultations, contact:
Dr Suleiman Tajudeen, CEO and Director of Clinical Psychology, Clear Mind Psychological Consult, Km 15, Badagry Expressway, Ojo, Lagos. +234 803 402 4457
