As the back-to-school season approaches, families across our community are busy shopping for supplies, adjusting sleep schedules, and preparing for another academic year. But one important part of school prep that often gets overlooked? Your child’s spine and posture health.

At Regenesis Pain Management and Rehab Clinic, we know how demanding school life can be on the body, especially for students spending long hours seated at desks, carrying heavy backpacks, and increasing their screen time with tablets and laptops. That’s why this time of year is ideal for booking a Physiotherapy or Chiropractic assessment to help students of all ages start the year strong and pain-free.

Movement is the antidote to sitting!

Whether your child is 6 or 16, movement is essential for physical and mental health. Prolonged sitting without breaks can lead to stiff muscles, decreased circulation, and a greater risk of repetitive strain injuries.

Parents, you should encourage your child to:

• Stand and stretch every 30 to 45 minutes during homework or study time.
• Get daily physical activity such as walking, playing sports, or even short bursts of movement throughout the day (dancing, yoga, whatever works for your child!
• Avoid straining their neck by keeping devices at eye level and reducing screen time when possible.

Posture problems may be starting in the classroom

Classroom furniture is usually NOT ergonomic, and students spend long hours sitting in chairs not designed for their body size. Slouching, screen time at home, and sedentary homework sessions can all create an environment for poor posture and back pain.

Parents should look out for the following signs of postural strain in their kids:

• Complaints of neck or lower back discomfort
• Rounded shoulders or a forward head posture
• Fatigue after short periods of sitting
• Poor concentration (yes, posture can affect focus too!)

Our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Regenesis PMRC can assess your child’s posture, identify early signs of spinal misalignment or muscle weakness, and create a personalized treatment plan to correct and prevent pain. We can also guide you on how to set up a proper homework station at home.

Wear a backpack safely

Most students still carry physical books, lunch bags, and other items every day. An overloaded or poorly fitted backpack can place excessive strain on the neck, shoulders, and spine, especially in growing children and teens. Did you know? A child’s backpack should weigh no more than 10–15% of their body weight. Use the following tips to help

• Choose two wide, padded straps: avoid single-shoulder bags or cross-body styles.
• Ensure the backpack fits snugly against the back, not hanging below the waist.
• Adjust the straps so the load sits high and evenly across the shoulders.
• Pack smart: heaviest items closest to the back, and only carry what’s necessary.

Physiotherapy or Chiropractic Treatment can help your child! Book your first session today or call us at 905-597-4997 for more information.