06 Nov 7 Tips To Travel Pain-Free
Every year the holiday season usually involves some sort of travelling. Unfortunately, for those with any chronic pain, that can be a daunting feat. Long car rides, pressure of an airplane, and maneuvering heavy baggage can make it seem like the best option is to just stay home — but you don’t have to. With the right preparation and techniques you can travel pain-free.
Lift Luggage in Stages
Don’t try to move your luggage in one swift motion, instead break it up into steps. For example, when putting your luggage into the trunk of a car, first lift it onto a stepstool and then into the trunk. Then reverse those steps to take the luggage out of the car. On a plane, rest it on the seat first and then store it above.
Support Your Back
Car and airplane seats are not designed for comfort or support, which increases the chances of your aches and pains bothering you throughout your expedition. Being prepared can limit your pain throughout the trip and keep your spine staying that desired S-curve. Bringing a support pillow for your lower back will ease tension and make your journey more comfortable. You can also use it while waiting in the terminal, in the back of a taxi, or during a roadtrip.
Wear Supportive Shoes
Your feet are your body’s foundation. When they’re happy, your whole body is happy. Take note of how supportive your shoes are and if you feel completely comfortable — both physically and mentally — wearing them for hours on end. This could even mean investing in custom orthotics. Not just for this traveling season, but for everyday wear. They’ll help direct your footing where it should be and keep your arch and ankles secure.
Pack Light
If your bag weighs any more than 10 percent of your body weight, check it. Or have someone assist you carrying your bag to the car. Avoid lifting anything heavy above your head, especially trying to organize it in the overhead compartment. It will only increase the likelihood of triggering your pain, especially if you suffer in your back or neck.
Be Aware of Your Posture
Sitting for an extended period of time, like travelling in a car or airplane, causes strain on your body. Even more so when you’re slouching. Try to stay aware of your posture and sit upright to take pressure off our your spine and keep your whole body ache-free. One way to keep yourself accountable is setting a timer in your phone or watch to remind to check if you’re sitting up straight or not.
Get Up and Move Around
Keeping your body idle for long periods of time increases of the chances of pain later. Getting up to stretch and walk around boosts your body’s circulation. Ideally, try to move around about every 20-30 minutes to guarantee your body doesn’t stay stagnant for too long. This puts less pressure on your body since it doesn’t have to try to get up and move after staying dormant for hours.
Stretch Out Your Legs and Hips
Getting up and moving in needed, but what you do during that time can also help reduce your aches and pains. Sitting for prolonged periods of time creates tension in your hamstrings and hip flexors, which can put pressure on your lower back. Bending over to touch your toes and holding it for 30-45 seconds wakes up your hamstrings. Stretching out your hip flexor you can do sitting down. Just sit on the edge of your chair, lean forward slightly, and put one leg behind you anchoring it to the floor. Then try to raise your back slowly, you should feel a stretch in your hip.
Live a pain and medication free life by using chiropractic treatments as your long-term pain management system. Schedule an appointment today!