Whether you’re riding solo or have the whole family in tow, there’s nothing like time on the open road to make you feel free and at peace. However, if you experience back pain, your discomfort can quickly get in the way. If you’re planning a road trip in the coming months, use the following pointers to feel better in the driver’s seat.

3 Tips for Managing Back Pain During a Road Trip

1. Stretch at Rest Stops

When you see signs for a rest stop pop up along the highway, don’t rule out a break just because you don’t have to use the bathroom. These offer drivers a safe place to stop and stretch out their legs. Pull over whenever you need to and find a place you can stretch—whether it’s a grassy area or a parking lot median. Swing your arms around to improve circulation, touch your toes to stretch your hamstrings, and bend your chest back to the sky to reverse the effects of slouching.

2. Hydrate

Before you head out on the open road, stock your cup holders and trunk with plenty of water bottles, as well as energy drinks with electrolytes. By staying hydrated throughout the trip, you can prevent inflammation caused by dehydration. Green tea is especially helpful for reducing inflammation because it contains antioxidants, and the caffeine will give you a bit of an energy boost when you’re feeling sluggish.

3. Modify the Seat

Driving can put a lot of tension in the neck and shoulders, and if your seat isn’t properly adjusted, you might end up worsening your chronic back pain symptoms. To alleviate pain from extended periods of sitting, shift your seat forward enough so that you can keep your back upright while holding the steering wheel. However, make sure your arms aren’t uncomfortably bent; this means you’re too close. If you have lower back pain, try tilting the seat back to lift your knees or use a lumbar support cushion.

If you’d like to enjoy your next road trip despite lower back pain, consult the specialists at iSpine Pain Physicians in Maple Grove, Coon Rapids, Chaska, Shakopee, Sartell and Delano, MN. They treat patients and offer back, neck and hip pain management. If you’re in extreme pain, they can also administer back injections for instant relief. For more information on their services, visit their website. You can also call them at (763) 201-8191 to schedule an appointment.