It's back-to-school time, and that means kids running, jumping, and falling in the playground, books, back packs, and school sports. The activity can be great for you and the kids, but heavy back packs and bad posture can hurt your kids and their backs. Here are five tips from a chiropractor that will help keep your family strong and healthy:
McKim Chiropractic is a health care profession treat with Chiropractors Boise ID concern deliberate for your particular problems. Meet our Family Chiropractic Boise ID for the Whole Family Care.
- A good back pack! A good pack is light, snug and comfortable to wear. Make sure it isn’t too big for a small child. It should be made of vinyl or canvas, with two wide padded shoulder straps and a waist strap. Adjust the straps so that the pack is snug against the back. Make sure the heaviest objects are close to the body and bumpy, odd-shaped objects are placed on the outside, away from the back.
- In the dorm! If you are moving your kids into their dorm room, be sure to label the boxes so that you know what is inside and how heavy they will be. Tape the boxes so that they are sturdy and the contents won’t shift while being handled. Follow the rules for proper lifting with balanced footing and a good grip. Face forward when lifting, keeping the object as close to your body as possible, and bending from the hips and knees.
- Hitting the books! Use a book stand so that your book is at eye level when studying or reading. This will reduce the amount of strain on your neck and shoulders from having your book lay flat. It also gives you extra desk space!
- School sports! Remember that your body may not have done that particular sport in awhile and will need extra time to warm up--a minimum of 10-15 minutes. The warm up should involve simple movements that “simulate” your sport and get the heart rate up. Remember to stretch after the game.
- Sitting in class! Practice good posture, sitting with your shoulders back, chin tucked in and a gentle "C curve" in your low back. Don't arch your lower back or slump forward. Your ears, shoulders and hips should be in a straight line. Between classes stand up, walk around and stretch. This will help reduce the strain on the neck, shoulders and low back, and also help keep you attentive in class!
For more back-to-school health tips, contact our chiropractors at McKim Chiropractic. Call or go to http://www.mckimchiropractic.com for more information and to schedule an appointment. Our
licensed and certified staff is happy to help the families of Boise ID, Nampa ID, and Caldwell ID, have a safe and healthy school year.
licensed and certified staff is happy to help the families of Boise ID, Nampa ID, and Caldwell ID, have a safe and healthy school year.
