Midterms are in full swing at my university, and as I look around the library, I can sense the back pain that many students will fall victim to soon. My roommate’s back is so contorted from her 20-page research paper that she can’t bend her chin to her chest. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons for safe study:

1. Use a chair that gives good back support and adjusts for height. Sit with both feet on the floor and position your knees at the same level as your hips so that your thighs are horizontal.

2. Center your keyboard. To prevent wrist pain, ensure that wrists are almost nearly straight and arms are perpendicular to the floor.

3. Relax your shoulders and position them close to your body. Line up your ears with the top of shoulders and shoulders in line with hips.

4. Take frequent breaks. Stretch and walk around to continue blood flow. Rest your eyes often by looking at distant objects at least once every 15 minutes.