Your Chiropractor’s Holiday Travel Tips

Just about everything is different about this year, and that includes the holidays. Many of us have family scattered around the nation, and some are still planning to travel. For those traveling to visit family members this holiday season, practice these travel tips for the health and safety of your spine.

Take Care when Packing

One of the first things you need to take caution is with packing. Packing – especially when you are bringing presents with you – can do a number on your back. Remember to bend at your knees and use the power of your legs to lift things, like heavy suitcases, which can help keep your back healthy and free of joint restrictions. If you are already managing back pain, take the time to speak with one of our chiropractors about different ways to safely lift items. If you have someone traveling with you, be sure to have them help.

Don't Drive Alone

To stay safe and healthy while traveling by car this holiday season, don’t drive alone but keep your passengers limited to your own household. If you have to drive a long distance by yourself, you are at higher risk to get in an accident and to suffer from back pain. When you drive, you stay in the same position for an extended period of time. When you share the driving responsibilities, you can move and shift a bit more. Share the drive and it will be a more enjoyable (and less painful!) experience for everyone.

Take Breaks

It can be tempting to want to get to your location so badly that you just drive straight throughout without taking any breaks. This is bad for your brain, back, and bladder! Try to stop every few hours and stretch. This will give your body a break and keep your mind awake, too.

If you stop in a public location, remember to follow social distancing guidelines, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds after touching any commonly touched areas, and avoid touching your face and mouth.

The holiday season is enjoyable, but it comes with many stress factors. Don’t let traveling be one of them! Keep your back and body healthy with these travel tips and be sure to get adjusted at your local Brooklyn chiropractor before any big trips. To schedule an appointment, just click here to contact us at Williamsburg Chiropractic.