Monday October 21st 6.30 - 7pm
It’s that time of year again where ques begin to form inside shoe shops as children wait in anticipation to test out new footwear in preparation for the first day of school, and uniform and books are reclaimed and dusted off from the depths of wardrobes. September is fast approaching, and for many that means returning to their studies whether that be at school, college, or university.
I know many of you reading this will have family or friends who will be returning to their studies, or you may be returning yourself, so this week I wanted to provide some ideas that you can use and share with those around you, to help you take care of your spine during this term and beyond. If you are not studying, I recommend you persevere and continue reading, as you may find these tips helpful too!
Those annoying aches and pains that you may have experienced yourself at some point during your life are often caused by several factors. Unfortunately, poor posture and sitting for extended periods of time can be a part of it, which is what the majority of students spend their time doing. So hopefully this information will help to prevent these symptoms and make the upcoming term a positive one, not only for your studies but for the health of your spine too.
1. Carry a bag on two shoulders
I know this might cause resistance as it may not fit in with the latest trends, but simply moving from a shoulder bag to a bag with adjustable shoulder straps can make a huge difference with how the weight of the bag is distributed. The uneven load of carrying a bag on one shoulder can result in neck and shoulder complaints due to the repeated stress to the area. It can also cause one side of the body to work harder, which can impact posture and tension through the spine. Therefore, I would recommend using a bag with two straps and for the bag to be sat high on your back to provide additional support.
2. Reducing the load
Following on from the type of bag, the next question to ask is “what is in the bag?” Are there items that can be left in the classroom or is it even required? Carrying heavy books, folders, stationery, and sports gear can all add up and put pressure through the spine. Having an appropriate bag will certainly help, but if there is a way of reducing the weight it will assist the spine even further.
3. Feet on the ground
As you read this blog, you may be doing this right now. We are all guilty of it at one time or another! Crossing our legs or holding our body in twisted positions can create tension through our spine and lower body. Over a period of time the tension can manifest into discomfort such as lower back or glute pain. Therefore, whilst sitting at a desk, keeping both feet flat on the floor and knees at a right angle will help to keep the spine in a neutral position and reduce tension.
4. Time out and fresh air
There is no getting away from the fact that traditional studying involves a lot of sitting. Being mindful of posture whilst sitting will help, but we are designed to move, so encouraging students to stand up and move around frequently will help to create that essential movement through the spine. I would recommend standing up every 20 minutes where possible, and when it comes to breaks in the day, getting outside in fresh air, running around and playing will do wonders for the spine and help to give the brain some well needed down time from the focused studies.
5. Hydration
I know drinking water is something we talk about often, but I share it as a reminder because it is one of the simplest things we can all do to maintain good health. If you are considering buying some back to school goodies, how about investing in a new water bottle?! You can buy all sorts of fun bottles which can encourage children (and adults) to drink water. That dip of energy in class where it’s difficult to keep the eyes open, the mood changes where everything seems hard work, the aches and pains that can be distracting and recurring headaches that make the days drag could all be linked to dehydration.
I hope that information is helpful and please do share the information with those around you to help them start the new term off well!
The wonderful thing about chiropractic care is that it can be tailoured to people of all ages so if myself or the team can be of any further assistance please get in touch.
Have a wonderful week ahead.
With love,
Sarah
