In our recent post Are you up up and away this summer? our chiropractors at Cliff Chiropractic Clinic in Southend shared advice to help keep your back safe if you are flying to your holiday destination this summer. However, for many, reaching their destination may mean driving, taking the train or hopping on a bus.
Regardless of the means of transport, our chiropractors want you to travel safe and keep your back in tip top condition. Here are our chiropractors top tips for back safe travel this summer:
Keep moving: Keeping your body loose and avoiding stiffness is imperative. If you are confined into a tight space or even sitting in your car in traffic there are simple exercises you can do such as shoulder shrugs, and buttock clenches which will help keep you moving. Avoid sitting for long periods in one position by moving around. If you are in the car, stop at regular intervals, this is not only good for your body it is important for your safety. The last thing you want is to fall asleep at the wheel! When you reach your destination get moving as quickly as possible.
Stay hydrated: Keeping you body hydrated is important for your overall health and the health of your spine. Drink plenty of water.
Watch your back lifting and carrying: Holidays inevitably mean luggage! Usually heavy luggage which sometimes can be awkward or stored in awkward places. Always be mindful of your back when lifting and carrying your luggage. Lift with a straight back, your legs at hip distance apart and bend at the knees. Avoid twisting your body when lifting. Reverse the process when putting the luggage down.
If you are driving to your holiday destination then you may want to remind yourself of how to adjust your driving position to protect your back by watching a video that Arif, one of our experienced chiropractors at Cliffs has made.