Your
Spine While Traveling
What can you do to protect
your back while traveling?
Whether for business or
pleasure, travel is hard on your back. You spend time in uncomfortable seats
and unfamiliar beds and carry heavy suitcases through airports and hotel
lobbies. Well, it’s time to give your back a break by learning how a healthy
back travels. First, we need to lighten our baggage. We need to resist the
temptation to pack everything into a carry-on suitcase or garment bag. If you
want to avoid baggage checks, pack only what you can carry. It’s comfortable.
If you carry a garment bag or suitcase with a shoulder strap, remember to
balance the load by alternating shoulders. Carrying two suitcases of roughly
equal weight is an even better solution.
Be aware of body mechanics
while carrying luggage. Imagine an invisible line that starts at your ear and
goes past your shoulder to your hip. When the line is straight, your back is in
proper balance. Use luggage carts at most major airports and train stations
where they are available for a nominal charge. Push the basket with both arms
and keep your elbows close to your body to avoid overstretching. Next time you
shop for luggage, look for lightweight suitcases with built-in rollers. The
front wheels should roll easily around corners while the rear wheels stay in
place. Rubber wheels are recommended for protection against slips and skids.
Now the plane’s pain beats.
Airline seats as we know them are not designed for comfort. From the first
class to the economy, all pastors have the same complaints. Fortunately, there
are some simple adjustments you can make to protect your back for spinal
support, especially for your lower back. Place an airline pillow or folded
blanket at the small of your back. Be careful with your posture, especially if
you want to take a nap. Use a pillow or folded blanket to support your neck.
Gentle stretching exercises
can help relieve the stress of long periods. Try to stand in the aisle and walk
around at least once every two hours. This will prevent those muscles from
being overworked and that makes a big difference.