School is back in full swing! From elementary school to college, many students suffer from back pain. The amount of time students spend at school leaves no room for back pain if students hope to focus on their studies and enjoy their daily activities. We gathered four helpful and healthy tips for all students to try and implement into their routines for a better back.
- Watch the weight of your backpacks. Even with the increase of lightweight technology coming out, replacing textbooks and binders with iPads, MacBooks, and more, some students still are carrying too much weight. A good rule-of-thumb is that your backpack should weigh no more than 10-15 percent of your body weight.
- Keep a good posture while sitting in your classrooms. Americans typically sit an average of 13 hours a day, whether it be in their daily jobs or as a student. Having good or bad posture has a huge impact on the overall health of your spine. Good posture can be attained by shoulders back, chin tucked, not arching your back, and having your ears, shoulders, and hips aligned.
- For fall sports season, be sure to play safe. A quick stretch will warm up your body prior to playing. Spend 10-15 minutes stretching after engaging in a physical activity as well to “cool down”. Without these steps, the body can become more injury prone.
- Helping your back during cross-campus commutes. Be aware of what footwear you’re choosing to use during passing periods. Footwear like flip-flops offer zero foot and ankle support and causes you to walk differently than a sturdier shoe. Having to pinch or curl your toes to hold your shoe in place causes stiffness and pain in the lumbar region. Your best bet is to wear comfier, closed-toe shoes with stronger foot support.
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