Summer Travel Pain Management

August is here which means summer vacation time has finally arrived! For most, this is a time that is filled with excitement, anticipation, exploration, and relaxation. However, for some, this time may be filled with fear, dread, and pain. Those “some” we are referring to are people who suffer from chronic pain, and the small stresses of travel may make one more susceptible to an onset of a painful flare-up. And while living with pain is difficult in any situation, being taken out of one’s familiar environment (with built-in strategies for pain relief), brings on an extra set of challenges that make vacations more of a burden than a blessing. We want to put the feeling of fun and excitement of vacation back into the lives of chronic pain sufferers – we know it’s possible! Here we present a Guide for pain-free travel for summer vacation:

How to Deal with Luggage to Prevent Pain During Travel?

To deal with luggage and prevent pain during travel, experts suggest lifting slowly and in stages. When getting suitcases into overhead bins, lift very slowly, taking breaks by resting the baggage on the seat, then on the back of a seat, before lifting it all the way up. General rules for lifting and handling also apply: Use the legs, not the back; always bend at the knees; distribute weight evenly; switch carrying sides; and carry heavy items close to the body.

• Use the legs to lift and not the back,
• Always bend at the knees,
• Distribute the weight to each side of the body as evenly as possible,
• Switch sides that carry the weight
• Carry heavy items close to the body

How Can You Maximize Comfort to Prevent Pain During Travel?

To maximize comfort and prevent pain during travel, take pillows with you on your trip. Pillows are especially handy when sitting for long periods in planes, trains, or cars. They not only provide comfort but also boost proper sitting, offering versatile support under your bottom, around your neck, or behind your back. Consider researching travel sites and reviews for the best pillows for various purposes, or a soft down pillow is generally a good buy.

Why is Movement Important for Pain-Free Travel?

Movement is important for pain-free travel because getting tensed up from sitting down for too long is detrimental, especially for people with chronic pain. Moving around gives your muscles exercise and gets the blood circulating, which helps prevent tension. Many tutorials exist for exercising in cramped spaces. Compression socks also maintain proper blood flow, reducing inflammation and cramping. This need for movement extends beyond travel; once at your destination, avoid sitting in the same position for hours. Engage in walks, hikes, runs, bike rides, use hotel exercise facilities, or bring a resistance band.

Massage and pain relief devices

Teach your companions to massage you a bit if your body needs it, or make a massage appointment at your hotel, or bring with you on the trip massage rollers, canes, or even better, an RF energy device specifically designed for pain relief. This way when you are feeling a flare up coming on or already happening you can meet it head-on. Solio Alfa Plus is an energy device that emits a combination of 3 energies: RF, LLC and IR. Those energies are able to penetrate to different depths and attack pain no matter the origin, by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. Don’t forget to meditate, keep a healthy diet, wear supportive shoes, and stay hydrated! Happy and pain-free travels to everyone!