Students often spend a large part of each day hunched over textbooks and laptops, trying to cram in information for their tests and exams. Whilst this is important, we often hear complaints of neck and back pain, which is often due to poor posture whilst studying. It’s estimated that one in twelve students experience daily headaches throughout Year 12 due to poor posture whilst studying – and really, that’s the last thing they need with such a busy year! Here are some tips to keep your body in check whilst putting in the hours before exams:

• You’ll take in more information, and stay in better shape, when you take regular breaks. We know it sounds counterintuitive to stop studying, but your brain needs that time to refuel – and so does your body! A ten minute break every hour is ideal.
• Do some light stretching before and after a study session longer than an hour – gently tilt your neck side to side and back and forwards, and roll your shoulders a couple of times.
• Don’t study in bed or on the floor! Sit at a desk or even the kitchen table. Your feet should be flat on the floor,sitting in a chair with back support, and consider the height of your desk or table.
• Make sure when studying you move your work to you, don’t lower your head to the table.

If you are having pains (or your son/daughter is) that are severe and not getting relief from these tips, please feel free to contact us at reception@baysideosteoclinic.com.au for additional advice.