How to Avoid Back Pain at School

By Brandi Swieter 

Many students start school only to find themselves in pain within a few short weeks or less. The heavy backpacks kids carry, accompanied by the uncomfortable desks they have to spend hours sitting in, can take a major toll on the back and body. Students need to learn how to avoid back pain at school so they can have a more comfortable year.

Stretch Often

When sitting at a desk, between classes, during lunch, and as often as possible throughout the day, students should be stretching. Stretching allows the body to remain flexible and helps prevent certain injuries that can stem from poor posture, muscle overuse, and other struggles. Simple stretches will suffice, as long as they’re being done. The legs and back should especially get stretched out, especially after a long time of sitting. Blood can pool in the legs and cause clots if people sit for long periods without movement.

Keep a Backpack High on the Back

It may seem harmful to let a backpack hang low on the back, but it can cause more damage than one might think. A sagging bag can tug on the shoulders and cause a minor ache. At worst, back and shoulder problems can develop from constantly allowing a backpack to hang down on the body in this manner. A backpack should always remain high on the back with the shoulders snug in place and no sagging felt.

Choose Sensible Shoes

Flip-flops and flats will not suffice for the school year. These types of shoes cause unnecessary strain on the body as a person’s weight is being completely placed on the legs and feet. Sensible shoes that offer some shock absorption due to their makeup and style are the better fit for the school day. Walking between classes, down to the lunch room, to the bus stop, or farther will require comfortable shoes that don’t leave the body aching.

Any students who still encounter pain throughout the school year should visit The Joint Chiropractic. An assessment performed by a doctor of chiropractic may help determine if joint restrictions within the body are present so they can be eliminated. He or she may also offer additional advice on keeping the body as pain-free as possible throughout the school year and otherwise.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Eastvale, Calif.

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