Tips to Alleviate Aches and Pain While Traveling From Our Herndon Chiropractor
Travel opens us up to new experiences and new environments to explore. Whether by airplane or taking a long road trip in a car, the possibilities are exhilarating.
However, the process of traveling isn’t always easy. Long hours sitting in a car or on a plane can take its toll on your muscles and joints. Being confined to a constricted position can also cause restricted blood flow. This can result in pressure in the blood vessels, especially the lower legs. There can be an increased risk for blood clots due to insufficient circulation. Travelers can use the following tips to minimize injury risk while in transit:
Stretch and Warm Up
Warming up the muscles by stretching can reduce the risk of experiencing the ache of muscle cramps. Stretching the backs of the legs as well as the back and neck is particularly important.
Check Heavy Luggage and/or Get Help When Lifting Them
Reduce the amount of time you have to carry heavy bags so that you minimize the risk of injury to your back, neck and joints. If you must carry or lift them, use proper form. Bend at the knees, not the lower back, and always ensure joints are tracking properly and not from an awkward angle. When in doubt, ask for assistance.
Adjust Your Position and Move Regularly
While on a plane, strive to get up and walk down the aisle several times throughout the flight to ensure good circulation and reduce the risk of muscle cramps. While seated in either a car or on a plane, you can also shift your position in your seat. Doing so will help with avoiding the ache of muscle cramps due to lack of movement.
Pillows or a Back Support
There are a variety of cushioned supports for riding in cars or planes that can help with staying comfortable and pain-free on a long trip.
Contact Our Local Herndon Chiropractor for Travel Injuries
If you do experience a back, neck or joint injury while traveling, your Herndon chiropractor RxWellness Spine & Health can help. Through spinal adjustment and manual manipulation, proper alignment can be restored and the source of muscle ache and pains from travel can be resolved.