Pain and discomfort does not discriminate, both young and old can suffer from it. The most troubling is pain that our youth experience because we think “They’re too young for that.” But the reality tells us otherwise.
Advances in technology has changed how schools educate and how we communicate. While this brings countless benefits it also has a ripple effect in that it causes us to remain in the same position for long periods of time whether working on a tablet or laptop in the classroom or engaging on social media. It’s no wonder that our youngest generation suffers from chronic back pain, hunching over all that technology each and every day. Think about it, doing anything for extended periods of time, maintaining the same position with our bodies will inevitably create tension and discomfort. Our bodies simply were not designed to function in that way.
- Keeping them aware of what doesn’t feel “right”
- Being cognizant of what feels normal and what does not
- Taking frequent breaks
- Stretching
- Changing positions
- Addressing pain or discomfort if it persists
While it might be easy to take two ibuprofens and call it a day, it’s actually more like putting blinders on – if you can’t see it (or feel it) the problem has been solved, right? Unfortunately this logic leads you back down the same road again and again. There are times when addressing the problem head on provides the best solution for long-term success. This could mean massage therapy, strength training, stretching exercises, or chiropractic care. Devising a plan that keeps our bodies working as they should allows us to continue meeting the demands of today’s society, technology and all. Having no plan is like walking around in the dark. Sooner or later you’re going to hit something and it’s going to hurt.