November 9, 2021

Thanksgiving Traveling Tips

Thanksgiving travel can be stressful and painful. Whether you travel by plane or car, sitting in cramped seats for long hours with little to no legroom is often challenging for your patience as well as your back. Check out our chiropractic traveling tips that will get you from point A to B pain-free!

Don’t Over Pack

You don’t need to haul a 50-pound suitcase through the airport or grimace as you put it in your car. It all comes down to packing light. You do not need four different clothing options for one day. Pick your favorite and pack only one for each day you need. Next, make sure your suitcase is on an elevated surface at all times, so you don’t have to bend down to pick it up.

Keep Posture In Mind

Your posture can make a massive difference to your spine health. The importance of good posture is especially evident when you spend a lot of time sitting. To relieve pressure on your back, try sitting up straight with your knees bent no more than 90 degrees. In addition, you can make your journey more comfortable by using a lumbar support pillow. If you do not have one, you can also use a rolled-up jacket or sweater.

Stretch Periodically

It is common for long trips to cause stiff muscles and sore joints due to sitting. The best way to prevent stiffness is to stand up and stretch every few hours. While driving, plan to make several scheduled stops to stretch your legs. If you’re flying, stand up or walk around the cabin several times.

Dress Comfortably

It’s OK to want to look fashionable while traveling, but you shouldn’t sacrifice your comfort. Dress in loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely and invest in a pair of shoes that are comfortable to walk in.

Sit Back and Relax

We live in a fast-paced world, so why not stop for a minute to breathe deeply and enjoy the ride? Traveling gives us the perfect opportunity to get some rest without feeling guilty about it. Make sure you bring a pillow along if you have space in your car or your plane’s overhead compartment. The extra support will benefit your neck and back.

Visit Your Chiropractor

Chiropractic routines can be beneficial for preventing back pain, particularly before traveling. Schedule an appointment at Livingston Chiropractic before your Thanksgiving travels so we can help you manage and prevent back and neck pain. With the use of gentle, effective adjustments, we can help to relieve tensions and restore functionality. We want to help you enjoy healthy holidays now and in the future!