Christmas offers a unique challenge for people suffering with back pain

Nothing says Christmas like family. But for many of us in America, seeing our family requires traveling great distances. Whether by car, train or plane, there is no best option for people with back pain. The thought of hours spent in unsupportive seats is a true Christmas nightmare. If you are among the millions of Americans suffering with spinal problems this holiday season, be proactive about preventing many of the risk factors that contribute to your back pain.

Taking care of your spine while traveling this holiday season

If you suffer from chronic back pain, then chances are you have already anticipated traveling in some kind of discomfort this holiday season. But your suffering doesn’t have to be so severe; here are our tips for mitigating back pain risk factors while in transit:

• Use a lumbar support: even a rolled up jacket is better than nothing.
• Stretch: on a plane, stand up and walk to the back then do some gentle stretching; in a car, make sure you stop every hour or 2 to get out and stretch.
• Hydrate: drink an ounce of water for every pound of body weight to rehydrate your intervertebral discs. 
• Take care when lifting:
• Practice good posture: even if it feels slightly uncomfortable, it is better than the alternative. Make sure your butt is all the way back in your seat and your spine straight; if you are the driver, check yourself constantly to ensure your neck is not craning forward and increasing the pressure on your spine. 

Don’t forget to treat your spine this holiday season

At our office in Dunedin, we help our patients come up with solutions for their spines during the holidays. By restoring spinal alignment and providing relief to tense muscles, we ensure your back is in a state conducive to traveling. If you want to gain a leg up before you travel; or if you want to treat your spine after all is said and done this holiday season, give our office in Dunedin a call to schedule an appointment today.