Your Georgetown Chiropractor's Back to School Guide: Backpack tips, Study Posture, and Optimizing Cognitive Function

Back-to-school season isn’t just about school supplies and schedules—it’s also a crucial time to support your child’s spine, posture, and brain health. At Thomas Back and Body, we care about more than just relieving pain; we’re here to help your family thrive both physically and mentally.

Whether you're a parent or a student, our Georgetown Chiropractor's Back to School Guide offers practical, science-backed advice to set you up for success—starting with the spine and extending all the way to the brain.

Georgetown Chiropractor's Back to School Guide: Backpack Safety Tips

Did you know that improperly worn or overloaded backpacks are one of the leading causes of back and shoulder pain in school-aged children?

Here’s how to wear a backpack the right way:

• Keep it light: The backpack should weigh no more than 10–15% of the student's body weight.

• Use both straps: Carrying with one strap causes uneven pressure on the spine and shoulders.

• Adjust for height: The bottom of the backpack should sit just above the hips.

• Use padded, adjustable straps to distribute weight evenly.

Chiropractic adjustments can help correct any postural imbalances caused by poor backpack habits. If your child has been experiencing pain or discomfort, now is the perfect time to schedule a back-to-school spinal checkup.

Study Posture: What It Is and How to Improve It

Study posture refers to the body’s alignment while reading, writing, or working at a desk. Anatomically, poor posture often involves:

• A forward head posture

• Rounded shoulders

• A slouched lower back

Over time, this can lead to chronic neck and back pain, tension headaches, and even reduced lung capacity.

To improve posture:

• Keep screens at eye level to avoid craning the neck

• Take posture breaks every 30 minutes

• Practice simple postural exercises (like wall angels or chin tucks)

• When working from home consider a standing desk (alternate between sitting and standing).

• Use an ergonomic chair with lumbar support

• Raise your chair so your elbows form a 90-degree angle while typing

Regular chiropractic care can realign the spine and retrain muscles to hold better posture, making study time more comfortable and productive.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Brain Health and Focus

Recent research shows that spinal adjustments may impact brain-body communication by improving function in the prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for focus, memory, and decision-making.

Chiropractic care can:

• Improve blood flow to the brain

• Reduce nervous system interference

• Boost clarity and mental alertness

Combined with proper sleep (check out our Sleep Optimization Guide) and good nutrition (see our Nutrition and Wellness Tips), chiropractic care creates a foundation for better cognitive function and academic success.

Ready for a Healthier School Year?

Don’t wait until pain or fatigue becomes a problem. Thomas Back and Body, your trusted Georgetown chiropractor, is here to support your family’s wellness from the classroom to the athletic field.

Let’s make this school year the best one yet. Book your appointment today for personalized care and guidance you can trust.