Traveling allows you to discover new places, relax with your partner, or reconnect with loved ones. That said, it can also lead to back pain, whether you're journeying by car or train. If you have a vacation or business trip on the books, here are a few ways to minimize this specific discomfort that negatively impacts your overall experience. 

4 Tips to Prevent Travel-Related Back Pain

1. Keep Moving

When in a car or on an airplane, sitting in the same way for an extended period can lead to back pain—especially if you fall asleep in an unusual position. Therefore, take a moment to get up and walk around whenever possible. 

While on an airplane, stroll down the aisle. If you're driving, pull over at a rest stop to get a few steps in. Taking breaks to move around will curb aches and pains and naturally lubricate muscles and joints. When you cannot move, focus on making gentle shifts to your sitting position every 30 minutes. 

2. Prioritize Posture

Keeping the body in the proper position reduces the risk of aches. For this reason, you should sit and stand up straight with your shoulders, back, and neck in a neutral position. 

Travel accessories can also assist with pain relief. Using neck pillows on airplanes and lumbar support cushions during long drives will promote spinal alignment.

3. Dress Comfortably

Snug apparel like jeans, pencil skirts, shapewear, and materials with minimal stretch can restrict movement. As a result, you could find yourself slouching or hunching over to maintain comfort while sitting. Dressing comfortably in loose, breathable fabrics will let you feel more at ease while offering added mobility. 

4. Stretch Frequently

Daily stretching is particularly important when traveling. Sitting for extended periods or sleeping on new mattresses with different pillows often leads to back pain. Keep your body in good shape by doing a few simple stretches in the morning, before bed, and when you have a few spare moments. Helpful exercises include lying on your back and gently pulling your knees to your chest, pelvic tilts, and yoga positions like child's pose and downward facing dog. 

If you've traveled recently and are experiencing back pain, North Pole Chiropractic can help relieve the discomfort. Founded in 2001, this chiropractic health clinic provides holistic, noninvasive care to residents across the interior of Alaska. To schedule an appointment, call (907) 488-1885 today. Visit them online for more information on their personalized approach to chiropractic care.