As airlines make their planes more comfortable, especially for frequent travelers, flights are meant to be enjoyed. You should be able to work, relax with a book or movie, or even sleep until you arrive at your destination. However, neck and back pain can make the flight less pleasurable. If you’ve experienced discomfort while flying, here are tips to prevent it from happening again. 

What Can You Do to Increase Your Comfort During Long Flights?

1. Pack Lightly 

Back pain prevention begins before the flight. Carrying a suitcase to your gate causes stress on your neck, back, and legs. Packing lighter will make the load more comfortable to carry. If possible, invest in luggage with wheels. 

When boarding, ask a flight attendant to help you lift the luggage into the overhead storage. The action can be very stressful on the back but made easier with a little bit of help. 

2. Improve Your Posture

While sitting is comfortable, it does place pressure on the discs of your back. People tend to slouch when they sit, which causes pain the more often you do it. Place a pillow at your lower back between you and the seat. The pillow provides lumbar support, decreasing the likelihood of spasms, while also preventing slouching. 

During flights, your neck and upper back might feel stress as you view a movie or try to sleep. Wearing a foam neck pillow will allow you to relax comfortably.

3. Alter Your Standing Position

While you’re waiting in the security line, put your luggage down. Stand straight and don’t shift your weight so that the pressure is on one side. When the line starts to move, squat, and lift your luggage with your legs rather than your back. 

4. Stretch 

To sustain your range of motion, turn, tilt, and roll your head in all directions every 30 to 60 minutes. 

Once the plane is safely in the air, move around the cabin. Walking will allow for more circulation throughout your body. 

You can increase blood flow to your lower back as well, even while sitting. With your feet flat on the floor, place your right hand on the outside of your left knee and slowly twist left. You’ll hear a healthy crack. Switch sides and do it again. Also, twist your neck in the direction you're stretching to get the most out of the motion. 

 

 

If you’re experiencing neck or back pain, reach out to Walch Chiropractic Center PC in Leeds, AL. For over 25 years, Dr. Alan C. Walch, Jr. has helped those with chronic pain find relief. From sciatic pain to herniated discs, he offers non-invasive alternatives to surgery. Whether you need decompression therapy or preventative care, he’ll help you achieve a more comfortable quality of life and provide your body with improved flexibility. For more information on his services, visit his website. To make an appointment, call (205) 699-4433.