You’re on your way to the trip you’ve dreamt of for months.  Unfortunately you are getting that nagging feeling that you forgot something.  You go through your list: pants, shirts, shoes, underwear, tooth brush….  You seem to have everything when suddenly you remember.  You never made it to your chiropractor before you left and that nagging back problem has been getting worse.   

Are there things you can do to help keep your vacation pain free? Sure, and most of them are easy. 

You can certainly start before your trip begins by taking care of any injuries immediately.  Time passes too fast, before you know it your departure date will be here. You may barely have time to pack let alone tend to your health.  If you know you have any  lingering problems call your chiropractor today.  Correcting a problem can take some time and you certainly want to be in great shape for your trip.   

Whatever you will be doing, being prepared will be helpful.  Whether it is skiing, biking, climbing, scuba diving or day long walking tours, some advanced time in a gym or on a treadmill may save you from aching feet, sore knees and a stiff back.  For the golfers and tennis fans, besides taking some time to warm up before pulling out the driver or going for your first serve; make sure you have worked on your stomach and back muscles.  Strength in these areas will not only improve your game, it will help protect you against injury. 

Regardless of the destination, you will need to bring lots of things along, so pack smart. You would be better off taking more bags of manageable sizes.  Try to get bags with wheels. It is a lot easier on your back to roll them than it is to lift or drag or carry them.   

Once on your way, you may have to spend several hours cramped into a small space until reaching your destination.  Airplanes and cars can be pretty uncomfortable.  If traveling by car make certain to stop every hour, even if just for a couple of minutes, to get out and walk around.  If on a plane, get up from your seat every half hour.  Taking a stroll up and down the aisle can help prevent the stress of sitting from becoming too painful.  You may also want to try using a back support for your car or one of those pillows they give on airplanes behind the small of your back (they certainly aren’t very comfortable for your head.)  Also, try to maintain good posture and keep your head straight while sleeping. 

Once you finally get where you are going, make sure to have a great time.  Sing, dance, laugh and enjoy but pay attention to your body’s warnings signs.  Changes in environment, long hours of travel and perhaps a less than comfortable bed may take their toll.  It is also recommended to start with easier adventures first, and build up the more strenuous activities.  If you are tired or starting to hurt, then make sure to rest and relax. You might even want to treat yourself to a massage.  Most hotels or resorts have a therapist on staff and they may be able to help you work out some of those kinks.       

Sometimes despite careful planning, “Boo’s-Boo’s” still manage to happen.  Using ice for 15 minutes every hour on an injury will help to control pain and limit swelling.  If possible, keep the injured area elevated and rest as much as possible.   

If it is your back you hurt, find a chiropractor near you right away.  Chiropractors are the spinal injury specialists and most who work in vacation areas are used to seeing people in pain. They will happily care for you until you can get back home.  If you are already seeing a chiropractor, make sure to let them know you are going away.  They probably can write a note explaining your case to another chiropractor.   

Once you get back, make your chiropractor’s office one of your first stops.  Better yet, before you leave have your spine checked out.  Wouldn’t you have your car tuned-up before going on a long drive? Shouldn’t you do the same for yourself?

----------------------------------------------
About The Author: 

Dr. Halpern is a Chiropractor who is Wellness based with a broad range of interests in the health and wellness field. He has become certified in Psych-k (Belief change) and Reconnective Healing, both concentrating on helping his practice members to live the life of their dreams. Dr. Halpern also has a lot of experience working with sport specific injuries, foot mechanics and custom made orthotics.