Manage Summer Travel Back Pain with These Tips!
Taking advantage of no school and warmer weather, summertime is the peak season for travelers! For those suffering from back pain, the thought of traveling seems painful. No matter if you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile to get to your destination, enjoy pain-free travel with these tips:
1. Prepare Yourself
Stretching and core strengthening exercises are both excellent ways to manage back pain. While preparing for your trip, prioritize exercise daily to strengthen core muscles.
2. Plan Accordingly
Pick a flight or train ride that isn’t sold out if possible. There will be more room to stretch and move about during travel time.
3. Pack Light
Luggage can be a heavy load and strain the back if lifted incorrectly. If you can’t pack light, remember proper lifting techniques like using your legs, not twisting, and keeping your back straight.
4. Bring Support
An extra pillow will help provide your lower back support or a back brace for long days of touring is essential when traveling with back pain.
5. Posture Makes Perfect
Poor posture can cause major irritation to back pain. By using proper posture you can align and support your spine for long car, plane, or train rides.
6. Move Around
At the very minimum, try to move every 20-30 minutes when traveling. Movement keeps the blood flowing and helps essential nutrients reach your spine, which prevents stiffening and aching of the lower back.
7. Relax and Enjoy
Relaxing is the best thing you can do for your back pain. Stress can tense muscles and cause unnecessary pain. Sit back during your trip, breathe slowly and deeply, follow these tips, and enjoy your trip pain-free!
If you have back pain or back problems, make an appointment with one of First State Spine’s specialists.
It’s time to get a handle on your spine health and live free of pain! However, always check with your physician to see if these tips are safe to follow based on your health history.
