Tips for Maintaining Spinal Wellness During Holiday Travel
From sitting in uncomfortable seats for long hours to standing in long lines with heavy luggage, holiday travel isn’t easy. While the entire journey might be fun, it can put your health at risk, especially your back. If you’re traveling for more than an hour, whether by car or plane, you must avoid putting too much pressure on your lumbar spine.
Advanced Chiropractic Group in Santa Barbara also recommends visiting your chiropractor before and after traveling to ensure your back is in optimal condition. Here are a few tips to help you protect your spine when traveling.
Use a Lumbar Pillow
A lumbar pillow can help support your neck and reduce strain, especially if you’re on a long drive or flight. It enables you to maintain a good posture and relieve the pressure on your spine. If you don’t have an actual lumbar pillow, you can create one by folding a sweatshirt. Once you’re seated, place your lumbar pillow or improvised pillow vertically across the back of the chair. It should keep your hips, shoulders, and ears in alignment and maintain the natural curvature of your spine.
Maintain Proper Posture
Posture is critical when it comes to long-distance travel. Whether you’re flying, driving, or cruising, get up from your seat and take a walk every hour throughout the trip. Scoot toward the end of your seat and point your knees and toes inward. The posture should force you to sit up properly and make sure your spine is well-aligned.
Support Your Neck
If you feel sleepy, get a pillow to support your neck. If you’re a passenger, avoid spending a lot of time on your cell phone. Looking down at your mobile device throughout your journey can put too much strain on your neck. If you must be on the phone, hold the device up and frequently stretch your neck from side to side, then back and forth.
Schedule Breaks
Sitting for long periods without routine stretches can do a lot of harm to your spine. Any chiropractor in Santa Barbara can tell you the benefits of moving. They recommend moving as much as possible and taking short walks every hour to alleviate stiffness. If you are the driver, schedule ten-minute rest breaks every hour. Instead of sitting in the car during the break, hop out and walk around while stretching your legs, arms, neck, and back.
Seek Chiropractic Help
The best thing you can do for your spine is to see your spinal wellness chiropractor before and after your trip. Chiropractors at Advanced Chiropractic Group use all-natural techniques like massage therapy, spinal adjustments, stretches, and exercises to help maintain spinal health. These appointments allow us to spot any damage to your spine and correct it before it’s too late.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Chiropractor in Santa Barbara Today
To learn more about spinal wellness and chiropractic care in general, visit a chiropractor in Santa Barbara and speak to Dr. Cochran, Dr. Hauber, or Dr. Larson. Don’t let an injury, pain, or discomfort affect your everyday life. Call (805) 681-7322 and book your appointment at Advanced Chiropractic Group today