Whether your back pain is temporary or chronic, it makes traveling more stressful. Long hours in the same position, especially an uncomfortable one, may worsen your pain and dampen your enjoyment of the trip. To avoid any of these issues, it helps to take advantage of a few tips.

5 Ways to Travel With Back Pain

1. Pack the Minimum

When your bags are heavy, it's harder to pick them up or set them down carefully, all of which can adversely affect your back. Understandably, you may want to bring anything that alleviates your back pain, such as pain relief medication, heating pads, lumbar pillows, unique seat cushions, or a massage device. However, other than the necessities, only include items that you need. If you need to pack anything substantial, check that piece of luggage so that you don't have to lift it in and out of overhead bins.

2. Know Your Plane Preferences

You may prefer one long plane ride with no stops so that you don't have to get up or sit down frequently, or perhaps you'd appreciate a chance to walk around during a layover. Buy your tickets accordingly. Either way, choose a plane with amenities that can help keep your mind off your back pain, such as the ability to watch movies or listen to music. If you have the means, opt for business class, which is usually more spacious and comfortable.

3. Stretch Periodically

Regardless of what type of ticket you pick, take time to get up and move around occasionally during the flight. This way, your back won't become stiff. Take one or two trips down the aisle and do some simple stretches at the end of the plane, provided you check that the flight attendants don't need to get past you.

4. Choose the Right Hotel

Check that the hotel has a pool, hot tub, or massage machines if those features would help with your back pain. Also, call ahead and ask the hotel staff if they can ensure you get a mattress with the right firmness for you. Make arrangements for a bellhop so that they can carry your heavy luggage when you arrive.

5. Stay Calm

Give yourself enough time to do everything you want or need to do while being able to rest between tasks. Practice breathing exercises, bring anti-anxiety medications, or pack activities that you enjoy so that you can more efficiently handle any emotional distress you may encounter.

To further help you handle your back pain, get chiropractic care before and after your trip by going to Chiropractic Associates Of Platteville in Wisconsin. With extensive knowledge about the way your spinal nerves affect your back and neck pain, they can aid you in living longer, healthier, happier, and with more energy, in addition to helping you enjoy traveling. Whether you’ve sustained a sports injury or another medical condition that affects your spinal health, call them today at (608) 348-3156 or message them online to check their availability.