08/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/19/2024 14:11
ROSEMONT, Ill. (August 19, 2024)-As the first bell of the school year rings, a new wave of excitement and independence washes over students. With this freedom comes increased risks. Distractions like smartphones, headphones and crowded walkways can pose safety hazards. The bone and joint experts at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) remind us that accidents can be prevented if parents, teachers and students are on the lookout for potential risks.
ALWAYS BE AWARE AND ALERT
With the increased foot traffic of young pedestrians, it's essential for students to be mindful of their surroundings when walking to and from school. By obeying traffic signals, using designated crosswalks and making eye contact with drivers before crossing, students can significantly reduce their risk of pedestrian accidents.
"Elementary school children are very active and impulsive," said L. Reid Nichols, MD, FAAOS, FAOA, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon and AAOS spokesperson. "Although they are learning and growing, school-age children still need guidance when playing and walking near traffic. Simple reminders, such as 'look left, right, then left again before crossing the street,' can help reinforce children's pedestrian safety habits and avoid traumatic injuries."
BACKPACK SAFETY
Heavy backpacks can be a source of back, neck and shoulder-related pain in adolescents and adults. In fact, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were an estimated annual average of 1,200 backpack-related injuries to children under 19 years old treated in emergency rooms from 2019-2021. While U.S.-based organizations vary on how much weight one should carry, on average it is suggested a healthy child with an appropriate body mass index should not carry more than 10% to 20% of their body weight in a backpack.
"Improperly wearing and overloading a backpack can result in back, neck and shoulder pain," added Dr. Nichols. "To limit injuries or back pain, encourage your children to limit the load and utilize both padded straps for proper posture and weight distribution."
Decrease your chances of backpack-related injuries this school year with these simple tips:
CATCH A BREAK FROM YOUR PHONE WHEN WALKING
As students across the country arrive on campus for the start of a new school year, they may regard their smartphones as their most indispensable personal items. For some, though, the devices may also be dangerous distractions. Whether listening to music, texting, talking or otherwise absorbed in their phones they are making themselves more vulnerable by tuning out their surroundings.
Consider these tips to avoid the dangers of distracted walking:
For more bone and joint injury prevention and treatment information, visit OrthoInfo.org.
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About the AAOS
With more than 39,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is the world's largest medical association of musculoskeletal specialists. The AAOS is the trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal health. It provides the highest quality, most comprehensive education to help orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals at every career level to best treat patients in their daily practices. The AAOS is the source for information on bone and joint conditions, treatments and related musculoskeletal health care issues; and it leads the health care discussion on advancing quality.
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Contact AAOS Media Relations
Deanna Killackey
847-384-4035
[email protected]
Lauren Riley
847-384-4031
[email protected]