Vacaville Chiropractor Alex Tam Provides Tips On How to Fly with Less Back Pain

Every frequent flier understands that long flights can inflict some havoc on your back and reclining through those hours won't simply help it. But if you equip yourself with some strategies and do some proper preparations, you can overcome the discomfort that hours of sitting can do to your back. With that in mind, you have to learn these methods so that you will have a comfortable time during your next flight.

Lessen Back Pain While Flying in Vacaville CA

1. Pack lightly - Carrying heavy carry-ons is already risky enough for your back especially when you have to lift it up and place it on the overhead bin. This is made even worse when you accompany it with some twisting motions while lifting as it can add more to the strain. If possible, always be smart with what you pack and come up with a lighter load. Also, it would be better if you ask your companion or seek help from a flight attendant to store your carry-ons on the overhead bin.
2. Perform well on your workout routine - This is important especially during the weeks prior to your trip. If you haven't been physically active for quite some time, you are likely to experience spasms on your back muscles especially if you'll be sitting in tight quarters for hours. It would be nice to work on your muscles and give it a nice stretching regimen so that when the time comes, you no longer have to worry about back problems.
3. Remain hydrated - This one is very important. You should practice proper hydration even days before your trip. The cabin can have a very dry environment which means that dehydration can be a thing. If this happens, back issues and joint stiffness can become worse. When the inner gel of the spinal discs become dehydrated, the discs will be at risk of a tear or bulge. So it's important to maintain proper water intake during your flight to prevent dehydration from happening. Also, it will cause you to make frequent visits to the bathroom which is good since you'll also have time to move around and stretch.
4. Sit right - Sitting is one of the positions known that puts stress on the spinal discs. To cope with this during a long-hour flight, have a pillow placed between your back and the back of the seat. It will provide you some support and prevent slouching which will maintain the natural lumbar curve of your back. Also, your neck needs this kind of support too so make sure to also use a neck support pillow during your trip.
5. Get a doctor's note - If your back pain is serious or you recently just had back surgery, ask for a note from your doctor and notify the airline in advance so that they can secure you a seat that can provide more room. There are instances that airlines would consider such an accommodation for the situation that you are in.

Hopefully, you now have an idea on how you can maintain a pain-free back during the entirety of the trip. This will ensure that you'll have a comfortable time and you no longer have to worry about the stress that will be troubling your back.

Call Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville today to schedule an appointment.