Back to School Tips for a Healthy Mind, Body, and Soul

By: Dr. Tod Williams D.C

Class is back in session! The beginning of the new school year can be a fun and exciting time for your kids, but it can also be a stressful time. The beginning of the school year can be stressful for students, like meeting new teachers, getting back into the routine, and the work load of classes. So, as we start the new school, year let’s learn some tips to help set up our kids for success!

Tip #1: Choose the Right Backpack to Avoid Back Pain!

Our kids might want to go for the backpack that shows off their personality, but unfortunately, it may not offer a ton of support. We want the straps of a backpack to be wide and cushioned, and if we can find backpack that has the third strap that connects across the chest, that’s even better. The third strap across the chest helps with weight distribution, reducing stress and relieving pressure off the shoulders.

Another important tip is to make sure your child is wearing the backpack correctly. Wearing the backpack with just one strap on the shoulder might look cool, but carrying all the weight of the back pack on one side of the body can lead to misalignments to the spine!

Tip #2: Proper Posture in Class!

When sitting at a desk for hours each day over the course of the school year, it is important for your child to be practicing proper posture. Hunching over the desk and slouching can cause neck, shoulder, and back issues. To help prevent hunching over and their head from tilting over their shoulders, it will help to get a standing desk that tilts toward them to keep their books and homework at eye level. You can also teach them a couple stretches to do at their desk, especially for when standing is not an option! Those stretches will improve their spinal health and their ability to concentrate in class!

Tip #3: Keep Your Child Adjusted!

Regular chiropractic care will boost the overall health of your child. Chiropractic adjustments will help manage your child’s stress levels. Chiropractic care will also help boost your child’s immune system so they avoid getting sick throughout the school year. Being healthy allows them to avoid less sick days and falling behind in their classes. Better physical health will ultimately lead to better mental health!