Latest news

Holidaying is one of our favourite pastimes but for back pain sufferers, discomfort while on holiday can put a dampener on the fun.

We all need a holiday to recharge our batteries, but with back pain affecting almost 80 percent of us at some time in our lives, a combination of hectic preparations, uncomfortable journeys and emotional stress can mean that travel takes its toll on the back.

Flying with back pain
Air travel can be restrictive and uncomfortable, even if you don’t have an existing back complaint. Try to request an aisle seat where you will have more leg room and can regularly get up and move around to ease any pressure on the back. If you are in a middle seat, use a toilet break as an opportunity to stretch your legs and back. To help maintain a good sitting posture, keep both feet flat on the floor at all times.

Keep moving
Regular, gentle exercise helps ease stiffness and strengthens the back muscles. Ensure you keep mobile a little every day while you are away, particularly if you are used to a certain level of exercise, to avoid muscle seizure.  Make the most of your hotel pool or a safe bathing area of the sea to keep you active – water can also help ease any niggles you may have.

Sightseeing
One of the best parts of any holiday is soaking up all of the glorious sights! However, constant craning of the neck to view beautiful buildings such as the Eiffel Tower, Sagrada Familia or Empire State Building may place a strain on the neck muscles.  Rest the neck each evening by having a relaxing bath and use a pressure relieving travel pillow to support and help the muscles recover.

Spread the load
Sun lotion, insect repellent, beach towels, bottled water… there are plenty of travel essentials that we all stock up on to accompany us on our holiday.

Although important, the collective weight of these can add up. To ensure you even out the load and reduce the strain on your back and neck, swap your beach bag for a small backpack which you can wear across both shoulders.

Keep hydrated
Dehydration contributes to a surprising number of back pain cases, so it’s important to drink plenty of fluids particularly if you are in a hot country.

Remember that some drinks, such as caffeinated tea and coffee, actually dehydrate the body – the best way to keep your levels topped up is to carry a bottle of water with you and sip it throughout the day.

View the full article courtesy of travelbite.co.uk and backadvice.info