Summer and fall are perfect times for that road trip you’ve been looking forward to, but prepping your vehicle AND preparing your body is important. We know many of you are active, or want to be active. And, hitting the road to explore a national park, visit a relative or travel to the beach is the perfect way to get out and do just that. But sitting in a vehicle can also cause or exacerbate lower back pain. And, as much as we wish we could, we cannot go on the road trip with you. So, we’ve put together some ideas to help you physically prepare your body for a road trip. Plus, we’ll offer some nutrition tips and other considerations so you aren’t road-trippin’ in pain and you can truly enjoy your vacation!
6 Ways to Prepare Your Body For a Road Trip
1. Pack Your Vehicle the Right Way
Packing your vehicle is work, but doing it the wrong way can be a major pain – literally. We recommend that you bend at the knees and rely on your leg muscles to lift your luggage rather than bending and using your back. If you’re struggling, ask for help. You don’t want to have back pain the rest of the trip!
2. Take Breaks Along the Way
A good rule of thumb is to stop at least every two hours to get out and stretch, even if it’s only for a brief time. Walk around, use the restroom and restore your energy. You may find that you’re suffering from muscle stiffness, fatigue or neck and back pain. Getting out and moving around can help alleviate this discomfort. Plus, this will help improve your blood circulation, oxygen and overall energy.
3. Snack and Eat Healthy
We know, vacation and road trips means some treats and cheats. But, planning ahead can help you from relying on fast food for the whole trip. Traveling makes you tired which leads to slouching and puts too much pressure on your back and neck. This then leads to – you guessed it – more back and neck pain. Pack some fruits and veggies, nuts, granola, trail mix, yogurt and other yummy snacks!
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Avoid juices and soft drinks and pick up the water bottle. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated prevents pain, stiffness, and muscle cramping. It also helps with digestion and aids in carrying oxygen to your muscles which can reduce muscle spasms.
5. Utilize Proper Back Support and Posture in Your Vehicle
You know how it feels to sit for too long and the pain it can cause. And if you already suffer from neck or back pain, it only gets worse! Sit up straight and maintain an optimal seated posture: keep the knees bent at 90 degrees and place your feet flat on the floor with your spine straight. You may also want to consider a good back support pillow. Reducing pressure on your spine helps reduce joint pain and any other back, neck, hip or shoulder pain you may feel.
6. Prepare Your Body For a Road Trip with a Visit to Our Chandler Chiropractic Office
Schedule an appointment with us before your road trip just like you make an appointment to get your vehicle ready. Routine vehicle care like an oil change and inspection is important to prep your vehicle for taking a road trip. Chiropractic care can do the same for your body. A healthy, aligned spine means you’re less likely to experience pain, discomfort, stiffness or other health issues on your trip. And when you get back from that trip, we’d love to see you to re-align your spine, too! You can tell us all about your trip while we get you feeling good enough for the next one.
Prepare your body for a road trip and schedule an appointment with our Chandler chiropractor today!
