Back To School Basics
Back to school is almost here and the excitement is in the air as teachers and students prepare. Your to-do list surely includes new school supplies, wardrobes, and routines, but it is also important to take care of your health. A great addition to any back to school routine is taking care of your back with chiropractic care, and there are several steps you can take on your own to prepare yourself and your family for a great school year.
1. Purchase the right backpack
The right backpack will have a light, fit tight and will be comfortable to wear. The backpack should have wide shoulder straps that are padded, along with a padded back. A waist strap is an added bonus! All straps should be adjusted so the backpack is snug against the back and it should not be leaning away from the body. Keep in mind that a backpack is only as good as it is packed. Keep the heaviest objects closest to the body and any odd-shaped or bumpy objects are on the outside, away from the back.
2. LABEL THINGS APPROPRIATELY
Keep that label maker handy! If you are moving your kid into a college dorm or new apartment, there’s probably going to be a lot of heavy lifting. Make things easier on yourself by labeling things appropriately so you know which box goes where. You also want to be sure to lift with proper form -- have a good grip, balanced footing, bend from the hips and knees, and lift with your legs, not your back!
3. ARRANGE AN ERGONOMIC WORKSPACE
When there is a lot of deskwork to be done, an ideal workspace will set you or your child up for success. Studying, reading, and homework should be done with proper posture and books should be kept at eye level to reduce strain on the shoulders and neck. A book strand is great way to help relieve that strain.
4. REMEMBER TO STRETCH
Back to school normally means a return to activity that wasn’t necessarily being done over the summer. Your body or your child’s body may have adapted to the lack of activity, so it may require extra time to warm up. Remember to stretch before and after practicing sports or exercising.
5. PRACTICE PROPER POSTURE
Standing or sitting with proper posture can greatly reduce the strain on your shoulders, neck, and back. It can also help maintain attention. Sit with your neck upright and shoulders back without slumping forward. Your hips, shoulders, and ears should be in a straight line. Be sure to take advantage of breaks between classes to walk around and stretch!
By following these tips and coming in for regular chiropractic adjustments, you will set yourself and your family up for success at the start of the new school year. Click here to learn more how we can help you and your family!