Airplanes and Back Pain

In the coming months, many Canadians will want to escape the frigid temperatures and head to warmer climates. In order to get to these warmer destinations, the most common mode of transportation is by airplane. Sitting motionless for hours, cramped in a plane seat will result in muscles stiffening which can take its toll on your back. 

Not to mention the loading of heavy luggage into the trunk of the car, too heavy carry-on bags racing dangling on shoulders and then trying desperately attempting to fit those bags into the overhead storage only compounds back problems.

There are a few ways to ease back pain, such as:

Pre-Flight - doing activities to strengthen your back and core before the flight, the better chance you have of surviving it without pain. 

Mid-Flight - Taking a walk up and down the aisle every 40 minutes or so will allow your back muscles to loosen up a little. Try using a pillow or rolled up sweatshirt as lumbar support at the base of your seat will act as a lumbar support and cushion for your lower back. Stay sufficiently hydrated. Pre-existing disc problems will result in back pain especially if you’re dehydrated. 

Post-Flight - after you’ve landed and departed the airplane, avoid sitting or lying down for long periods of time as this could exacerbate the back pain .

Scheduling an adjustment to your spine before and after a plane trip can save you from dealing with unnecessary back pain. Have your chiropractor at Core Chiropractic Center suggest some good posture techniques and stretching exercises in preparation for your travels.