Maintain Spine Health All Summer Long
We all know that summer can be a great time for vacations and exploration. On your adventures, if you suffer from back pain or are looking to avoid it in the future, we have some tips and tricks to share with you! Whether traveling by car, bus, train, or plane, it's crucial to understand how to care for yourself properly while on the go. This blog will provide valuable insight into how travel affects our spine health and practical tips a person can use this summer to protect their spine and keep any unnecessary aches at bay!
Invest in Proper Support Pillows for Traveling Comfort
This summer, upgrade your travel setup with proper support pillows. They will help ensure you're comfortable as you tour the world and provide vital spinal protection when sitting for long periods of time. Back problems are common among travelers due to their irregular sleeping and seating habits while on the road. Comfortable and supportive pillows can work wonders in alleviating some of these issues by engaging your muscles and preventing unnecessary stress or fatigue. Investing in an ergonomic pillow to decrease the strain on your back can make all the difference between a great trip and one marred by aches and pains.
Bend Properly and Use Your Legs when Lifting Heavy Luggage
When traveling this summer, paying attention to how your body is moving and treating itself is crucial. When lifting heavy luggage, bend properly at the knees and use your legs - not your back - as the primary power source. Proper technique when bending and lifting can help prevent strain on your spine, which can be especially problematic for those with chronic back pain. Your lower back will thank you if you give it a break by employing the correct posture and mechanics when lifting and carrying heavy objects.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting on Longer Journeys
Summer trips offer a chance to experience new places, create lasting memories and relax. However, when traveling by long distances, many of us find ourselves facing the dreaded practice of prolonged sitting. While spending extended periods seated may be comfortable, it can leave you feeling stiff and uncomfortable later. To avoid this common issue, consider adopting some preventive practices while on your journey. Use support pillows or cushions to maintain proper posture and make frequent stops during your trip to stretch out and walk around. Keeping these simple tips in mind during longer trips can aid in protecting your spine and prevent any discomfort associated with traveling.
Stretch Regularly to Avoid Fatigue and Stiffness
This summer, it's essential to keep your spine healthy while traveling; stretching regularly can help with this. What does this mean? Twisting, bending, and other movements that engage different muscles for at least a few minutes each day will keep your body in shape and prevent fatigue and stiffness from setting in. Plan some time each day when you can stretch with simple poses like seated forward folds, child's poses, and side bends. Additionally, if you're going on a long flight or doing a lot of car trips this summer, be sure to take frequent breaks - find a nearby green space or park if you can! Regular stretching over the summer can provide long-lasting benefits for your body.
Take Breaks to Give Your Spine a Rest
Summer is a great time to go on vacation and explore new places, but all that movement can take a toll on your spine. Building in mini-rests throughout your trip is vital to keep your spine in optimum health for the long haul. Take breaks as a chance to exercise--go for a walk, do some stretches, or look for activities that will help you hold a proper posture. In addition, remember to practice ergonomic lifts when carrying heavier objects from place to place. Every step towards protecting your spine adds up and allows you to enjoy an active, pain-free summer.
Practice Good Posture While Sitting, Standing, and Lying Down
Summertime is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore the world, but it can be hard on your spine if you're not careful. Practicing good posture while sitting, standing, and lying down can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy back. When seated, make sure your feet are flat on the floor or have a supportive footstool if they don't reach you. Keep your chin tucked in and shoulders relaxed.
Standing tall with feet hip-distance apart and weight evenly distributed between both legs can help reduce strain on the back muscles. Finally, if you are stretched out in uncomfortable places such as airplane seats or grassy fields, try using extra support, such as pillows for your head and neck, to ensure you don't end up causing unnecessary harm to your body. With these tips, you can keep your spine safe this summer without sacrificing all the fantastic experiences travel offers!
With summer on the horizon, keeping your spine healthy while traveling is imperative. All of the above points are essential steps you can take to ensure that your spine stays healthy no matter where you go. You may not think about protecting your spine when traveling, but utilizing these few tips can prove beneficial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle this season!
Let Amazing Spine Care help you navigate spine care to rest assured that your back and neck will be much better off in the long run. Contact us at (904) 320-0808, or visit our website and fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.