Prevent Back Pain On Holiday
Back pain on holiday is very common. One of the biggest causes is the lack of activity and an already stiff spine. mobilise the spine regularly throughout your holiday to prevent it from spoiling your holiday.
First thing in the morning, before it is too hot, go for an half hour walk or swim to wake your back muscles up and mobilise the joints that have stiffened up over night.
Try and incorporate a few core postural exercises throughout the day.
Most resorts also have aqua aerobics, fitness classes, yoga or pilates so try and get involved in these throughout your stay.
Hotel Beds and back pain
Back pain is often caused by a poor mattress. If the bed is too hard putting a duvet under the bottom sheet can help soften it up a bit. I fit is too soft then pulling it off the base and onto the floor may improve matters. If all else fails then complain and ask for a different bed.
Sunbathing on Holiday
Sunbathing can be disastrous for people with back pain. when sunbathing on your back, you should raise the back support slightly up – from the horizontal to 35 degrees. You should also try rolling up two beach towels to place under both knees, so that your knees are slightly bent. This will all reduce the load on your back.
If sunbathing on your front, it is recommended that you fold two beach towels, so there are approximately 8 layers of towel beneath your stomach. This will help stop your lower back from jamming the joints together.
Remember, break up prolonged sunbathing with walking or swimming as lying in one position for too long may exacerbate your lower back pain.
Pre-Holiday Check Up
If your spine is already a bit stiff before you travel you are much more likely to get pain whilst you are away. We recommend a pre-holiday check up even if you are currently pain free. A bit of prevention can go a long way in keeping you pain free. Aim to schedule an appointment with our Liverpool Chiropractor 2 weeks before you holiday so it gives your body time to settle before jetting off. You can contact our Liverpool Chiropractor here.
