Long flights can leave you stuck in uncomfortable positions for hours, making sleeping especially difficult. Coupled with lugging heavy bags and the general stress of travel, you may find yourself experiencing back and neck pain even after you land. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself from travel pains.

Do:

Change positions and walk around.

Sitting for long periods will stiffen muscles and joints. This leads to discomfort and makes them more susceptible to flare-ups or injury. Switch your positioning when you can, and take all opportunities to get up and move around. When you’re allowed to take your seat belt off, perform some light stretches to stay loose.

Use a neck pillow.

Airplane seats aren’t ideal for spine and neck support, which is why neck pain is a common issue. Invest in a neck pillow to hold your neck in a natural position so you won’t strain the surrounding muscles and tendons. Many airport stores have pillows of various materials and fillings you can try out before your flight.

Don’t:

Book during peak hours.

Flying during peak hours usually means a cramped seat, little room to recline, and fewer opportunities to move around. Try to book during the day when there will be more space. Also, consider flying during hours when you won’t need to sleep, and, if possible, try to purchase business class seating since it’s easier on the back.

Forget to hydrate.

It’s easy to become dehydrated in an airplane cabin, and it can lead to joints drying out. The discs between your vertebra act as cushions. When they dry out, they may be more susceptible to injury. Bring an empty water container with you that you can fill at a water fountain once you’re through security.

If back and neck pain is an ongoing issue, see a chiropractor at May Chiropractic Rehabilitation. This East Hartford, CT, clinic offers a broad scope of services, treating neck and spinal pain, pinched nerves, and other injuries. They offer massage therapy and chiropractic services which you can explore on their website. Call (860) 568-3900 to schedule a consultation.