Road trips are a fantastic way to explore new places, create lasting memories, and unwind from the daily grind. Especially this time of year, holiday road trips are quite common as families and individuals travel to visit loved ones. However, spending hours in a car can take a toll on your body, leading to discomfort and stiffness. As your trusted Billings chiropractor, we understand the importance of maintaining your spinal health, even while on the road. Read on for some tips that will make your trip pleasant and help you recover after you’ve arrived at your destination!
Stay Comfortable on the Go
One of the primary challenges of long road trips is sitting for extended periods, which can lead to back pain and discomfort. To combat this, consider these tips:
- Ergonomic Seating: Adjust your car seat to provide proper lumbar support. If needed, use a cushion or rolled-up towel to support the natural curve of your lower back.
- Frequent Stops: Take regular breaks to stretch and walk around. Aim for a 10-15-minute break every two hours to reduce muscle stiffness and promote blood circulation.
- Proper Posture: Maintain good posture while driving. Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and both hands on the steering wheel. Avoid hunching forward or slouching.
Pack Smart and Light
Overpacking can lead to unnecessary strain when loading and unloading your vehicle. Be mindful of what you pack and how you load your car:
- Organize Your Luggage: Distribute the weight evenly in your car to prevent imbalance. Heavier items should be placed on the car floor, and lighter bags can go on top.
- Limit Heavy Lifting: Use proper lifting techniques when loading and unloading your luggage. Bend at the knees, not the waist, to avoid straining your back.
- Pack Essentials: Only pack what you need to reduce the overall weight of your vehicle. This not only makes your trip more comfortable but also improves fuel efficiency.
Stay Active and Hydrated
Sitting for long periods can lead to stiffness and decreased circulation. Combat these issues by staying active and hydrated:
- Stretch Breaks: Incorporate simple stretches into your breaks to keep your muscles flexible. Stretch your legs, arms, and neck to relieve tension.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate muscle cramps and discomfort. Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-dense beverages throughout your journey to stay properly hydrated.
- Exercise: Consider adding short exercise routines during your stops. A brisk walk or some light yoga can do wonders for your body and mind.
Plan Your Post-Trip Visit
As your Billings chiropractor, we believe in proactive spinal health. Even if you follow these road trip tips, it’s common to experience some discomfort after hours of driving. That’s where we come in. At Bare Chiropractic, Dr. Thomas Keogh can provide chiropractic adjustments and personalized care to alleviate any discomfort and ensure that your spine is in optimal condition.
Before you hit the road, schedule an appointment with Bare Chiropractic for a pre-road trip adjustment, and be sure to come visit us once you return home as well. This will help address any issues that may have arisen during your journey and ensure that your spine is in top shape. Our team is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, pain-free spine, whether you’re on the road or at home.
Sources
Lantoine, P., Lecocq, M., Bougard, C., Dousset, E., Marqueste, T., Bourdin, C., Allègre, J., Bauvineau, L., Mesure, S. “Car seat impact on driver’s sitting behavior and perceived discomfort during prolonged real driving on varied road types.” PLoS One, 2021 Nov 16; 16 (11): e0259934. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34784401/
Lau, W.Y., Kato, H., Nosaka, K. “Water intake after dehydration makes muscles more susceptible to cramp but electrolytes reverse that effect.” BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, 2019 Mar 5; 5 (1): e000478. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30899546/
