Prepare To Launch: Our Kids on their College Careers!

In the coming weeks or months a number of us will be launching our kids on their college careers. Sending your son or daughter off to college for the first time is a bitter sweet experience for both parent and child.   As parents, we are proud that they are taking that first step toward living on their own, but also a little anxious for them and sad that they are leaving the nest. Our child, on the other hand, is probably experiencing feelings of both excitement and insecurity about leaving home for life on campus.  

The last thing we want to throw into this emotional mix is a moving related injury. The following tips are intended to help prevent that from happening:  

1. "Chill" - Residence Halls usually open at least several days before classes start so consider delaying your arrival by a day or two to avoid the mad rush of anxious parents and kids that will be moving in the moment the doors open.
2. Don't make boxes too heavy. An extra trip is worth the effort to avoid an injury.
3. Wear sneakers!! Sandals although comfortable offer NO protection should an item fall on you. Sandals and flip flops are also a trip risk.
4. Use proper lifting technique- When lifting heavy items, bend at the knees and keep your back straight--let your legs do the work. Also, avoid twisting as you lift. If an item is too heavy or bulky, get some help. If you have any neck problems avoid lifting any heavy objects overhead.
5. Work together- If an item is too heavy or bulky, get someone to help you.
6. Tire Check-Before you hit the road, check the condition and pressure in your tires, this is truly a safety measure and will also make the trip more comfortable and improve gas mileage.
7. Car posture*-If you are the driver: Adjust your seat, sit up tall, engage your abdominals, pinch shoulder blades down and tuck in chin. Now adjust your rearview mirror. When necessary during the drive, readjust your posture, NOT the mirror.
8. Staging- Get as close to the Residence Hall entrance as safely possible and unload everything. Leave your son or daughter there while you park the car, then all of you can work together to carry things to the dorm room.
9. Watch your step- If you have to negotiate stairs, watch your step, take it slow, and use tips 4 and 5 above for lifting and carrying.  

Moving is your child's first step towards independence, make sure they help!!  

If you have some of your own tips to offer, visit us on Facebook and share what you have learned.

*Send us an email request and we will send you one of our car air fresheners (vanilla scent) with posture tips for a strong core and healthy back.

    

For more information about this article or a free consultation, call Kathleen Casey or Darlene Wooldridge at Back To Health Physical Therapy  (954) 565- 0075, or email us at info@backtohealthpt.com