If you already struggle with back pain on the ground, flying will only exacerbate any discomfort you feel. That’s why it’s crucial to take the proper steps when flying, which ensures you arrive at your destination feeling your absolute best. 

Do:

Bring a pillow for support.

Airplane seats aren’t usually associated with maximum comfort. Bringing a small pillow to place behind your back increases support and minimizes back pain. If you also experience neck pain, consider buying a wrap-around neck pillow for added relief. 

Maintain a good posture. 

Slumping in your chair puts undue pressure on back muscles. While a back pillow helps with posture, you also want to ensure that your shoulders are straight, and your feet are firmly planted on the floor. Using your stomach muscles for support can relieve pressure on the back and spine. 

Don’t:

Sit for the entire flight. 

Stretching your legs on long flights is a must to maintain comfort. Whenever possible, get up and walk around the aisles to stretch your spine and legs. You can also stand up and stretch in your seat from time to time. Staying seated in one position can increase stiffness in the muscles and joints. 

Forget to pack medication.

Even by taking the above efforts, you may still experience back pain on your flight. If so, pain relief can be a real lifesaver. When bringing medication, check out the airline’s regulations to ensure you’re compliant. You can also ask your flight attendant for over-the-counter pain relief. A heating pad is another good option as it can soothe your back on long flights. 

In Cincinnati, American Health Chiropractic offers safe and effective treatments to treat back pain. They also offer other pain relief treatments, including electrical muscle stimulation, microcurrent therapy, and chiropractic massage, which has a positive effect on both the body and mind. Additionally, they have experience treating car accident victims and can even help with injuries incurred at the workplace. If you’re planning a trip, schedule an appointment today by calling (513) 576-6699. You can also learn more about chiropractic care by visiting them online.