5 TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR BODY WHEN MOVING BACK TO COLLEGE
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Originally Posted On: https://apexptwellness.com/5-tips-to-protect-your-body-when-moving-back-to-college/
IT IS ALREADY THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN.
The exciting (or maybe dreaded) time to pack up and move to college. It seems like moving day always fell on one of the hottest days of the year and of course, my dorm had no air conditioning. I can still remember the numerous trips up and down those flights of stairs.
All while trying to keep my sweat under control so it didn’t look like I just hopped out of the shower.
This leads into my first piece of advice…
STAY HYDRATED
On average, the human body is made up of about 60% water. It is important to replenish those fluids that are lost during physical activity and especially on a hot day when you are even more likely to lose fluids through sweating. Be sure to pack a water bottle and hydrate before, during and after your move.
SQUAT, SQUAT, SQUAT
You have probably heard the phrase “lift with your legs, not your back”. When lifting, especially heavier objects, it is best to squat down to pick something up instead of bending at your trunk.
You will still use your back muscles with squatting down to pick something up, but it is a lot less stress on your back than bending forward at the trunk.
Don’t forget to engage those abdominals while you lift! This will also help protect your back.
FACE YOUR BODY IN THE DIRECTION YOU NEED TO GO
When carrying, picking up or putting down an object, do not twist your back. If you need to turn or change direction, take small steps to get yourself turned instead of trying to twist at your spine.
KEEP LOADS CLOSE TO YOUR BODY
When picking up an object, keep the object close to your body. This also applies when carrying an object. It will give you a better mechanical advantage and less risk of injury.
PLAN AHEAD
Make sure whatever you are moving fits through doors and small hallways before you start moving it. You’ll need to consider if you have to tip the object upright or take a different angle through a doorway.
Improper lifting is one of the main causes of back pain.
Try these tips to help protect your back and the rest of your body when moving to or back to college this year. If you do suffer an injury, here at Apex we can do a thorough evaluation and assessment to determine the cause of your pain/injury and have multiple treatment options to get you back to pain-free activity.