How to Prevent Back Pain While Traveling

You wait all year for that two-week vacation, so you don’t want to spend it rubbing a sore back from traveling. There’s no doubt that driving long distances or flying in ridiculously cramped quarters can give anyone back pain.

Here are some things you can do to prevent back pain while traveling:

Move Your Body as often as Possible

If you are flying, be sure to get up and use the restroom or walk up and down the aisle a few times. If you’re driving, be sure to pull over at those rest stops and get out and stretch your legs and back muscles.

Manage Your Stress

Stress causes our muscles to tense, increasing the likelihood of back pain. Managing your stress may mean being better prepared for your travels. Don’t leave things until the last minute but write a to-do list to accomplish those tasks that are important. Practicing mindfulness and deep breathing can also help greatly in reducing the mental, emotional and physical effects of stress. And finally, speak to a therapist if you are dealing with a lot of stress in your life.

Make Some Adjustments

Speaking of being mindful, be more mindful of how you move through your day when traveling. For instance, so many people stand in long security lines or boarding lines carrying heavy bags on their shoulders. Keep the bags on the floor and only pick them up (carefully and mindfully) when the line begins to move.

When slinging those heavy bags above you into the overhead compartment, be sure to have your legs should-width apart or more for balance. Tighten your ab muscles to support your back and use as gentle movements as possible. If you are incapable of getting your bag up there without hurting yourself, please ask for help.

You may also want to work with a chiropractor before your trip to work out any misalignments you have. This way you can feel your very best on your vacation!

If you’re headed out for an adventure and want to get an adjustment, please stop by our office or give us a call!

SOURCES:

https://www.healthpartners.com/blog/prevent-back-pain-while-traveling/

https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/how-prevent-neck-back-pain-when-traveling-ncna882531

https://www.neurosurgeryone.com/blog/tips-for-reducing-back-pain-while-traveling/