Warning: Travel Can Increase Pain

Today, traveling is an essential part of life whether it is for work or pleasure. While modern conveniences, such as cushioned and adjustable seats, have increased the comfort of traveling, there is still a potential risk for experiencing increased pain. According to the American Chiropractic Association, the risk of pain increases any time a person’s body is subjected to the pressures and forces that occur during prolonged sitting. To compound the problem, traveling also requires a person to carry heavy luggage and stand for long amounts of time. For those with an upcoming trip on their itinerary, here are the best ways to reduce pain while traveling.

Warm Up Before Heading Out

Those with chronic health conditions should always treat traveling as if it is an athletic event. Therefore, it is important to wake up early enough on the day of departure to have time for some brief stretching and a short walk. If possible, these activities should be repeated again after arriving at the final destination.

Choose Safe and Natural Pain Relief

Even with the best of efforts, some pain may occasionally flare up. Those with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, will find that carrying safe and natural pain relievers is the best way to keep pain at bay while traveling away from home. For example, pain relief cream can be applied to a person’s achy joints and muscles even while they are sitting on a plane or train. Super Blue Stuff OTC Natural Pain Relief Cream comes in a 5-ml travel pack and a 3-oz. roll-on – both great for travel. Foot and Leg Comfort can also come in handy, especially if you experience problems with your feet and legs swelling or becoming sore when you sit for long periods.

Be Sure to Keep Moving

Cramped seating accommodations are common on most forms of travel. However, those who are proactive will find many opportunities to move around. If traveling on a plane or train, a person can get up and walk down the aisles once they are given the go-ahead from their pilot or conductor. Restroom breaks are also another time when a person can get moving. Even simple chair exercises can be done to get blood flowing so that fluid does not build up in a person’s joints. If driving, whether in a car or an RV, try to make stops frequently so that you can get out of the vehicle and walk around, even if just for a few minutes; it can also create the opportunity to see local attractions on the way to your final destination!

Avoid Lifting Heavy Bags

When in a rush or a crowded airport, a person may feel tempted to carry their heavy suitcases. Unfortunately, this is one of the most common ways for a person to be injured while traveling. Instead, opt for baggage with handles and wheels, or a person can choose to use a rolling cart. When lifting overhead, those with chronic conditions may benefit from asking for assistance from an attendant.

To avoid becoming another victim of travel-induced pain, it is important to understand the reasons why pain can occur while traveling. Generally, increased pain is the result of too many hours spent sitting or standing in one place. By being proactive and finding ways to move along with keeping Super Blue Stuff OTC pain relief cream nearby, a person can enjoy their travels in comfort.