Going on a vacation is often how we escape from our amazing yet oftentimes stressful life and job. Therefore, you have to make sure that you have nothing but a smooth getaway which starts from your travel to and from your destination. Believe me when I say that a car ride or flight can wreck a trip because of back pain. Here are some tips that can help you keep that from happening to you and have a blast on your vacation.
1. Visit The Chiropractic Clinic Before And After Your Trip
Flying can be stressful especially when you fly during the holiday season. Don’t let back or neck pain makes it even worst! Pre-flight and post-flight spinal adjustments let you get comfortable aboard and get off pain-free. Chiropractors can help prepare the back for this change in activity. Chiropractors will search for and remove restrictions in the spine, which then leads to less discomfort. With regular visits, they can keep the back in a state of wellness, which may even keep the pain away in the future. If you start visits before traveling begins, it can help prepare the back and body beforehand. And if you continue the practice while traveling, it may bring about, even more, benefit by removing any restrictions picked up along the way.
2. Sit Properly
Don’t hunch over to the steering wheel. It’ll only strain your neck and shoulders. Instead, let your shoulder blades rest at the back of your seat with your bottom all the way back.
3. Don’t Sit On Your Wallet
For those who put wallets in their back pocket, always remember to take it out when you drive or even sit. Sitting on your wallet creates an asymmetry or imbalance that distorts your pelvis and hips which can lead to all sorts if issues from pain to degeneration.
4. Keep Your Knees Lower Than Your Hips Throughout The Journey
Remember that your spine has a natural curve, so when you sit, don’t try to sit too straight. You can roll a towel and put it against the small of your back and the chair to make sure support this slight natural curvature without a lot of conscious effort.
5. Pull Into Rest Stops
If you know your destination will be hours away, then pull into rest stops at least every hour or two. Rest, stretch everything out or take a walk to loosen up everything so that you don’t arrive at your destination feeling stiff all over.
6. Try To Book Or Request An Aisle Seat
This is the best spot for you to easily stand up and stretch, something you’ll appreciate especially when you’re in a 17-hour flight.
7. Get Up And Move Every Few Hours
If you have a history of back problem, it’s crucial that you get up and move every few hours. You can simply explain your condition to your fellow travelers and the crew if you’re worried about upsetting or disturbing them during the flight.
8. Know How To Lift Properly
Carry-ons go in the overhead compartment of the aircraft. So if you have a medium-size suitcase you’ll have to lift that up there yourself. To avoid getting injured, learn how to properly lift. Bend your hips and knees to squat down to your luggage, keep it close to your body, and straighten your legs to lift. Avoid turning or twisting your body while lifting or holding a heavy suitcase.
9. Choose Carry-Ons Wisely
When it comes to carry-ons, opt for a proper backpack rather than a shoulder bag. Lugging a shoulder bag often leads to excessive strain on the neck, shoulders and lower back. By making use of a backpack you’ll distribute the weight more evenly, reducing the potential strain. And pack as light as possible. If you don't need something before you get to your destination don’t carry it with you onto the plane, pack it in your checked luggage instead.