If you're a frequent traveler, you already know that air travel can cause neck and back pain. Lifting heavy luggage, sitting for extended periods, and even travel stress can contribute to discomfort and aggravate pre-existing conditions, especially on long flights. Use this helpful guide to learn what you should and shouldn’t do to stay comfortable on your next flight.

Do: 

Bring support pillows.

Airplane seats hold your neck and back in an unnatural position that can lead to discomfort, especially after long periods. Alleviate this pain by bringing a back or neck pillow designed for spinal support.

Neck pillows made with small beads or foam will contour to your shape and support the natural position of your head and neck. Back supports like lumbar rolls and ergonomic seat pads can also provide added spinal support to help reduce pain.

Maintain good posture.

Common airplane positions, such as leaning against a window, resting your head on your shoulder, or arching your back to look down at a book or magazine, can all contribute to neck and back pain.

Being aware of your posture can help. Try keeping your legs bent at a right angle when sitting to reduce lower back stress. Also, avoid looking down for long periods, which can strain your neck and shoulders. 

Don't:

Sit for too long.

Though it's not always easy to get up and walk around on airplanes, long periods of sitting can cause postural strain, leading to soreness in the neck, back, and shoulders.

Try walking the aisles of the airplane to loosen your muscles and help prevent stiffness. When the seatbelt light is off, take a trip to the lavatory, or stand up in your seat and perform basic stretches like shoulder rotations, neck rolls, and gentle spine twists.

Forget pain medications and compresses.

While it's possible to reduce your back pain, in some cases, you may still be sore. Prepare by packing over the counter pain medications and any pain medications prescribed by your doctor. Consider packing hot and cold compresses, which can soothe aching muscles and reduce inflammation caused by excessive sitting. 

If you regularly experience neck and back pain caused by travel, contact the skilled team at Smith Chiropractic Clinic in Concord, NC. Since 1978, Dr. Andy Smith has provided chiropractic adjustments for patients throughout Cabarrus, Rowan, Mecklenburg, and Stanley counties with a focus on pain relief, injury rehabilitation, and holistic services. Contact his caring staff today at (704) 788-3126, or visit them online to learn more about their services.