Dr. Grace Walker Gray is an occupational and physical therapist and Holistic healthcare Practitioner who serves as President of Physical Restoration, Natural Health Solutions. She is also working on a new book: “Bye, Bye Back Pain, 9 Holistic solutions for Long Term Relief from Sciatica, Lumbago, Slipped Disc and Backache.” Additionally, Dr. Grace Walker Gray maintains membership in the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

1. AOTA Talks
Backpack Health
for Children
Grace Walker

2. Introduction
 Dr. Grace Walker Gray is an occupational and physical therapist and
Holistic healthcare Practitioner who serves as President of Physical
Restoration, Natural Health Solutions. She is also working on a new
book: “Bye, Bye Back Pain, 9 Holistic solutions for Long Term Relief from
Sciatica, Lumbago, Slipped Disc and Backache.” Additionally, Dr. Grace
Walker Gray maintains membership in the American Occupational
Therapy Association (AOTA).
Children often use backpacks to carry books and other items both to and
from school, but according to AOTA, the weight of those backpacks
could have detrimental effects. Backpacks that are too heavy can cause
muscle strains and other types of discomfort. That’s why AOTA
recommends that backpacks have a maximum weight of 10 percent of
the child’s total weight.
Additionally, backpacks should have padded shoulder straps to provide
comfort, and AOTA recommends using the waist strap for stabilization.
Parents should also exercise their own judgment. If the backpack feels
too heavy for the child, then it’s probably a good idea to lighten the
load. To learn more about backpack ergonomics and AOTA
recommendations, visit aota.org/backpack.
Dr. Walker can be reached at PhysicalRestoration1@gmail.com