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Flying for extended periods can be hard on the body. If you travel frequently or already suffer from neck or back pain, you might find that you feel worse after the flight. These types of aches can make it difficult to enjoy your trip and can get in the way of your routine. Here’s how to avoid this problem in the future.

How to Avoid Neck & Back Pain on Planes

1. Exercise in Your Seat

Although you’re generally stationary during a flight, there are ways to relieve neck and back pain. Even in limited space, you can focus on sitting up straight to avoid aggravating an existing problem. Give your neck a workout every hour or so by turning your head and looking over your shoulder multiple times, then looking up and down and rolling your head around.

Relieve back discomfort by bending slightly and stretching your arms above you. You can even reach over and hold your opposing shoulder, so long as you don’t disturb your seatmate.

2. Mind Your Body in Line

Cincinnati, OH back painWhen you’re standing in line, make sure to hold your body upright instead of slouching. It’s natural to hunch over a bit, especially if you’re carrying a backpack or a heavy tote bag on your shoulder. Weight transfers to one side of the body, which can put excessive strain on your back.

Make it a point to focus on your posture, and to set your bags down when possible for greater comfort. When you need to lift your bag, squat down instead of bending at the knees.

3. Walk Up & Down Frequently

The body will handle pain better if you relieve strain on those areas that are most affected when you sit. Get up at least once every hour and walk up and down the aisle.

Stretch your legs, bend each foot back towards your bottom, and bend at the waist to touch your toes if it doesn’t hurt your back. This is particularly important if you’re on a long flight; it will keep you limber and minimize the odds of stiffness and excessive neck and back pain.

 

Your body deserves only the very best care. If you’re dealing with uncomfortable neck and back pain that affects your quality of life, turn to the caring team at Forest Park Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Cincinnati, OH. Serving the community since 1989, the wellness chiropractic clinic focuses on treating the precise cause through a variety of helpful treatments, like acupuncture. Visit the website to learn more or call (513) 742-0880 to schedule an appointment.

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