Michelle Nesin For the Huntsville Times
Best tips? Limit what you bring and be ready to walk Traveling is stimulating, exciting and ... painful. We are sleeping in beds different from our own, traveling in cars or planes for extended periods and being more active then usual.
If you have pain in your neck, back and shoulders and don't take steps to plan for this stress, it may have negative impact on your entire trip. Try these tips to help prevent new pain and minimize those old chronic aches.
Pack carefully. In other words, limit what you bring. On the day of travel, wear your most comfortable walking shoes. If you pack several pairs of footwear, bring only shoes that can be walked in for several hours. Pack outfits that can be interchanged for different looks to make the suitcase much lighter for transport, lifting in and out of a trunk or stashing in an overhead compartment.
Take your blanket. A small, light blanket can be used for different supports. Airplane seats are often worn and provide no support. A small blanket folded in thirds fills the seat nicely, providing a level base. In a pinch, a jacket can be used. If the seat does not need to be filled in, then the blanket can be rolled length-wise and draped over the back forming a U, with the top ends of the U on either side of the headrest. This provides support for the low and middle back. An inflatable neck pillow or folded blanket provides comfortable neck support.
Arm yourself. Arm rests in cars or planes are often too wide, making you lean to one side. A breast-feeding pillow (Boppy, find at baby stores), regular pillow or soft carry-on can be used for support under the elbows, taking the strain off the neck. Whether traveling as a passenger or driver, this support will facilitate arrival at your destination feeling much more comfortable and well-rested.
Stop frequently. If you do suffer from pain, stop often every one to two hours to stretch and walk. Even a five- to 10-minute break will make all the difference in how you feel when you arrive. If flying, walk the aisle for a minute or two and stretch in your seat.
If you don't have the above items on hand, be creative - a beach towel or rolled up T-shirt can provide great neck or back support. A few minutes of planning can make your trip less painful both mentally and physically.
