Back to School: a Good Time to See the Chiropractor
By Paul Rothbart,
As summer rolls to an end, students young and old prepare to head back to school. It's a transitional period when the days of sleeping late, lounging around the pool, and not touching a book unless it's for pleasure give way to rising early, attending classes, and studying. Your body and mind will have to adapt and may need a little help.
Physical Challenges
Many students start classes in the morning and so must rise early, which can be difficult. Riding the not-so-comfortable seats of a school bus can take a toll on your body. Perhaps you're an urban student like I was and have to ride in a crowded subway car. Add to this lugging around books and other supplies in a briefcase which can stress the arms and shoulders, or in a backpack which can put a strain on your back.
Some students play sports or are involved in activities such as the marching band. This requires carrying equipment or instruments. Practices and rehearsals held after school lengthen the day and create more stress for the body. It can be quite a shock coming off a relaxing summer.
Mental Challenges
School is for learning and that means using memory and cognitive functioning. Studying for and taking tests, taking notes, and writing papers can be stressful. The anxiety can cause tension headaches. Running up against deadlines also can create stress. Other potential sources of tension are maintaining a solid GPA, paying tuition, and preparing for the next level. It's a lot to ask of a person.
How a Chiropractor Can Help
Regular visits to a chiropractor may be very helpful in adjusting to being back in school and getting through each semester. The strain on the back, neck, and shoulders from carrying books and other heavy items can cause subluxations and other problems. A chiropractor can fix these with adjustments and help to relieve the pain. You may find that you have more energy and are able to be more active. Joints that have been adjusted may have a greater range of motion and flexibility which can be helpful in sports. Treatment to the shoulders and neck can help relieve headaches and some people find stress and anxiety easier to manage when seeing a chiropractor. Another benefit that some people experience is better sleep. Sleeping well boosts mental and physical health.
Heading back to school after the carefree days of summer can be challenging and stressful. Consider a visit to The Joint Chiropractic. No appointment is needed and you may find that regular chiropractic care gets you back into student mode and keeps you there all year long.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Greenwood, S.C.