Tips from our West Babylon Chiropractor to Alleviate Aches and Pain While Traveling

If you suffer from neck and/or back pain, traveling can wreak havoc on your body. Even if your travel plans include the most comfortable options, sitting in upright position for long periods of time can cause restriction of blood flow, which may lead to pain and discomfort in your legs, back and/or neck. Whether you are traveling by car, plane, bus or train, here are a few tips from Hansen Chiropractic in West Babylon, NY to help alleviate pain while traveling.

Be Mindful When Packing and Lifting Luggage

The way you pack as well as carry your luggage can have a significant effect on the amount of stress you put on your back, shoulders, and neck. To avoid unnecessary stress and prevent pain, it is best to use luggage that has wheels and a handle for rolling. Keep in mind that even if you are using luggage with wheels, you will still need to lift it when going up and down stairs and loading in the car or another form of transportation, so don’t try to pack everything in one bag, instead use a few smaller bags. When lifting luggage, bend at your knees and use your leg muscles instead of your back, avoid twisting with your lower back and switch sides when carrying shoulder bags.

Support Your Back and Feet

One of the most important things you can do when you travel is to properly support your back. Talk to your chiropractor in West Babylon about recommendations for the best type of lumbar pillow you can use for traveling. A good idea is to use an inflatable travel pillow that fits around your neck, which will help to prevent neck pain and ache in your neck while sleeping or sitting in an upright position for long periods. If your seat prevents feet from resting on the floor, use some type of footrest, such as a pillow, to keep feet supported and to prevent lower back pain.

Schedule an Appointment with our West Babylon, NY Chiropractor

When making travel plans, be sure to visit your chiropractor after a long trip. A visit to the chiropractor will help relieve your aches and pains from traveling and help prepare your body for when you travel back home. For more information about the benefits of chiropractic care before and after traveling, contact Hansen Chiropractic. Call us at 631-321-5400 to schedule an appointment with our chiropractor in West Babylon, NY.