Road trips are popular in America, whether they’re done on vacation with a destination in mind or to simply travel and see the country. For those living with lower back pain, though, the thought of lengthy road trips can be unpleasant. If you don’t want your pain to keep you from enjoying your trip, here are three tips that can help with pain while you travel.

Lower Back Pain Management While on Road Trips

1. Stop for Exercise Regularly

Sitting for a long period of time causes a myriad of problems for your back, such as awkward positions putting pressure on it as well as restricted blood flow. The accumulation of pressure in the blood vessels that run through your legs also causes inflammation and aches. Stopping periodically to stretch your legs, get your blood going, and work your muscles restores your circulation and reduces the pressure on your spine.  

2. Use a Cold Pack for Pain Relief

Between breaks, ice packs are a good pain management tool for your back discomfort, especially if it’s caused by inflammation. The cold works to constrict blood vessels, which lowers swelling and inflammation in the affected area. It also numbs the area, providing reliable pain relief for the duration of your trip. When using them, however, make sure you don’t leave the ice pack on the area for more than 20 minutes at a time, and don’t use it if you have rheumatoid arthritis or other medical conditions that are sensitive to cold.

3. Don’t Drive It All in One Day

Extended periods of sitting and being cramped in awkward positions aren’t good for your back. The best way to prevent back pain during road trips is to limit the period of time you spend in the car at once. If your trip is long, break it up into manageable portions. Plan to spend no more than five to eight hours in the car per day, depending on your situation and pain management needs. Consider staying in a hotel if necessary, and use it as a way to treat yourself with some room service or a good meal at a restaurant.

For reliable, effective treatment of your lower back pain, put your faith in the team at O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates in St. Charles County, MO. At their practice, you’ll find attentive care from chiropractors and physicians alike to help you get the relief you need, whether it’s pain from a bulging disc or an acute injury. They believe that surgery should be a last resort, and they use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose your concern, treating it with non-invasive, effective approaches. Whether you have pain in your back due to a car crash or chronic condition, let their team improve your quality of life. View their services online and then schedule an appointment by calling (636) 978-3000.