With students going back to school for the fall semester, it is time to think about how college life will affect your spine. Here are some things to consider when setting up your college dorm room and preparing for the fall semester in general so that you can avoid back problems.
- Balancing Desk Height – The height of your desk is an important consideration. It needs to be high enough for your legs to fit under comfortably, but not so high that you can’t reach your computer keyboard. Having a chair that adjusts height can help to offset the need for a specific height desk.
- Monitor Height – Regardless of the height of your chair and desk, you want your monitors to be at eye level so that you are not straining your neck to look down for hours on end. That may call for some improvising. Conveniently, college books are usually pretty thick, so you can stack a couple to elevate monitor height when using your computer.
- The Right Mattress and Pillow – Dorm beds usually have to be a little on the small side, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on quality. Most people agree that a firmer mattress is easier on the back. Pillow choice should be based on sleep position. Back sleepers need a softer pillow so you get neck support without having your head propped up too high. Side sleepers need a firmer pillow. Stomach sleepers should try to find a new sleep position since it is the worst on your neck and back.
- Backpack Weight Distribution – Carrying around all of those books can put a strain on the spine. Don’t weigh your bag down with all of your books if you have time between classes to head back to your room. If you do have a heavy bag, wear it on your back with the weight evenly distributed rather than just throwing it over one shoulder. An uneven distribution of weight can lead to misalignments and back or neck pain.
Chiropractic Relief for College Students in the Fairfax, VA Area
Doing your best in class can be difficult when you are in constant pain. If you end up hurting, despite your best efforts to protect your back, Ward Chiropractic and Rehabilitation is here when you need us. We have Saturday morning hours to meet the needs of the busy lives of students. Contact us today by calling (703) 672-1661, or you can request an appointment online through our website.
