From homework and tests to extra-curricular activities, students already shoulder plenty of weight during back-to-school time. Their backpacks should be the least of their worries, says physical therapist Marc Rubenstein, DPT, of Jersey Physical Therapy.
“Backpacks are so practical, but they’re also so easy to misuse,” said Rubenstein, who wants to raise awareness about backpack safety as part of Jersey Physical Therapy’s “Play for Life” campaign. “If they’re too heavy or just worn incorrectly, backpacks can cause strained muscles, sore joints, back pain and even injury in kids.”