Tips for Traveling
When You Have Back Pain
Get Seat Smart
- If you're flying, book your flight as early as you can for the best seat choices.
- If you can afford it or have reward points, upgrading to business or first class may be worth
the extra comfort. - In coach, exit row seats have more leg room.
- But you need to be able to carry out emergency duties.
1. Always aim for an aisle seat.
2. So you won’t have to climb over people, & it’s easier to stand & stretch or take a quick stroll.
Timing Is Everything
- Avoid long lines at check-in & security & travel during off-peak times.
- Midweek tends to be less busy.
- Check in online when you can.
- Slip-ons are ideal for airports
- Before you leave home, check to make sure your flight is still set to go & there are
no problems at the airport. - Arrive at the airport at least an extra hour earlier than recommended & try to avoid
rush hour & heavy holiday travel days so you don't get stuck in traffic.
Clearing Airport Security
- Call TSA Cares at (1) (855) 787-2227 to learn how to get through security more
comfortably & easily. - They can even assign a helper for you at the airport.
- If you want someone you know to go to your gate with you, ask your airline for a pass
that allows the person through security without a ticket. - A Transportation Security Administration notification card, which you can get online, or a doctor’s note about your condition can help things go more smoothly
Sign Up for TSA Precheck
- If you travel often, pre-check can save you hassle & pain.
- You pay $85 for a five-year membership that fast-tracks you through airport security.
- You won’t have to take off your shoes, belt, or a light jacket.
- Even your liquids & laptop stay packed.
- You have to pass a background check & get fingerprinted.
1. So it’s not something you can sign up for on the spot.
2. Not all airports have it, so check the ones you are flying out of.
Phone or Email Ahead
- Airlines, hotels & cruise ships want to please you.
- Contact them ahead of time & ask about elevator access, bellhops, accessible bathrooms,
& more. - Be specific about what you need and what might help.
- If you have the option, go for a hotel that has a heated pool, hot tub, or sauna to ease your
pain after a long day.
Ask for a Wheelchair
- Even if you don’t usually need a wheelchair, consider it.
- Airports are filled with snaking lines & long walks, which can be a recipe for back pain.
- You can reserve one when you buy your ticket or just ask for one at the airport.
- Either way, give yourself extra time.
- It could take a while for the airline to line up a chair & someone to push it.
- The service is free, but the attendants appreciate tips.
Pack Light & Get Wheels
- Bring only the things you really need & divide them into a few light bags instead of single
heavy one. - You can also ship your luggage ahead to your hotel or cruise ship.
- Skip backpacks & duffel bags & go with rolling luggage.
- Ask for help every step of the way, from fetching you bag from the trunk to stowing it
overhead.
Take Stretch Breaks
- You might be tempted to power through a long trip.
- But you’ll probably regret it.
- On a plane, train, or bus, get up every 20-30 minutes and stand or stroll if you can. Let the driver or flight attendant know you’re dealing with pain and will need to stand up regularly. If you’re boxed in by meal carts, do stretches while seated.
Fly Direct OR Do A Lay Over?
- Long flights can make pain worse, but they cut your travel time.
- Connecting flights might mean rushing through airports.
1. But you get a chance to stretch & use more accessible bathrooms on the ground.
2. Try to leave at least 90 minutes for your layover.
3. Ask the airline about transportation to your next gate.
Pack A Comfort Kit
- Don’t skimp on this one.
- Make sure you have plenty of heat wraps, cold packs & soothing creams.
- A small pillow, can be used behind your neck or behind your back or sit on it
to change
your body position. - f you’re shorter, a foldable foot rest helps you keep good posture.
- A light blanket keeps you warm & can be rolled up for more support.
Medication Tips
- Keep your meds in your carry-on so you always have access to them.
- Bring more than you think you’ll need since you never know when you might get
stuck some where. - If you usually get shots for pain, get them before you leave.
- Keep all drugs in their original containers to avoid problems at security or customs.
- If your meds need to go in the fridge, call your hotel ahead of time to make sure your
room has one.
Do It All, Just Not in One Day
- Even if you’re not a planner, try to map out your trip.
- If one day involves a lot of walking or other activities, balance it with something more
restful the next day. - Look into bus tours that allow you to hop on & off so you can take in more sights with
less strain. - You definitly wear comfy clothes & shoes.
Keep Stress in Check
- Few things can ramp up anxiety like unexpected problems away from home, which can
make pain even worse. - Plan ahead as much as possible to help put your mind at ease.
- Talk to your anyone traveling with you & let them know you need to build rest breaks into
your trip. - If you can afford it, get a massage or spa treatment.
- Distract yourself from the pain with a book, video, or music.
- Tablets are lightweight & perfect for this.
Drink Water & Rest
- It’s easy to get swept up in the adventure of travel, but don’t forget the basics.
- Stay hydrated to help manage your pain.
- Bring an empty water bottle through security & fill it on the other side. And don’t skip out on sleep. Your body needs time to recharge, so bring along whatever you need to ensure good shut-eye.
Talk to the Health Pros
- Your doctor can give you travel advice specific to your condition, especially if you’re unsure about how certain activities will go for you.
- Others, like occupational therapists & rehab specialists, may offer great ideas, too.
- For example, rental car companies offer cars with things like swivel seats that can make
them more user-friendly for you.
Tap Into the Web
- Countries, states & cities often have tons of information online about more accessible or comfortable travel options.
- Some offers free beach wheelchairs & tips for taking in theater & getting your shopping
done when you have a hard time getting around. - There are lots of groups & even specialized travel agents who can connect you with the
right resources to make your travel as pain-free as possible
When You're taking A Driving Trip
-
If you’re on the road with someone else, take turns driving & pull over at rest stops for a
quick stretch. - On road trips, try to avoid rush hour & heavy holiday travel days so you don’t get stuck
in traffic.
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Health Directory | Travel Directory
Kosher Food At East Coast Airports
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