Where are you headed this summer?  Each year, millions of Americans travel to new and exciting places to relax and take in the local culture.  While we all like spending time in interesting locales, the journey can often be a pain in the neck (and back).  Here are a few tips from the team at Resurgens Spine Center to help you save your spine while you’re traveling this summer:

Getting Packed

When the big day finally arrives, you’ll no doubt spend some time packing your bags.  Whether you’re flying or driving, there are suitcases to be loaded up carried around.  When heavy bags are involved, always remember to use proper lifting technique by letting your legs do the work, rather than your back.

Driving Tips

If a road trip is in your future, don’t forget that long drives can be hard on the neck and back.  If you’re driving, move your seat up and try not to hunch forward when you’re behind the wheel to avoid putting a strain on the muscles in your neck.  In addition, making a stop every few hours to stretch out is a good idea, and it provides the perfect opportunity to switch drivers.

Flying Tips

Spending a day at the airport can be frustrating for anyone and long plane rides are hard on the neck and back.  If you’re not traveling light, wheeled luggage can take some of the strain off your spine when in the airport.  As for the plane, talk to your doctor about some stretches you can do before, during, and after your flight to help keep your muscles loose and flexible.

It’s been said that the journey is more important than the destination.  While that may hold true for some, others find travelling to be rather uncomfortable.  If you’re one of the latter, talk to your doctor and try following these tips to save some strain on your neck and back when you travel.