<\/a>A family road trip can be a wonderful experience that creates life-long memories for parents and children alike. In fact, a recent survey by Jiffy Lube International suggests that road trips remain an American favorite, with 78% of those polled agreeing that they make the best vacations. However, spending long periods of time sitting in a car on the open road can have its drawbacks, too. This is especially true if you already spend a lot of time commuting or if you already have back or neck problems.<\/p>\n

If you already spend many of your waking hours in a motor vehicle\u2014either commuting to and from work or as part of your job\u2014it\u2019s fair to wonder whether a family road trip is really a good idea at all. After all, just the act of sitting for long periods of time has been called \u201cthe new smoking\u201d. But if you do decide that a road trip is right for you and your family, there are some things that you can do safeguard your musculoskeletal health and to be more comfortable.<\/p>\n

Tip #1:\u00a0 Be sure that seats, seatbelts and head restraints are all properly adjusted.<\/strong> Remember that even the best safety equipment won\u2019t provide as much protection as it should if it\u2019s not positioned correctly.<\/p>\n

Tip #2:\u00a0 Get comfortable as early as possible in your trip.<\/strong> Little things that would only annoy or irritate you in the course of a 10-minute drive to the dry cleaner can translate into major aches and pains during a much longer trip. Avoid sitting on wallets or mobile phones and consider specialized supports or cushions that provide additional support for your lower back, neck or buttocks.<\/p>\n

Tip #3:\u00a0 Keep on moving.<\/strong> Sitting still for extended periods of time\u2014even in well-designed car seats that have been properly adjusted\u2014is bad for your back and for your health more generally. For this reason, it\u2019s important to change the position of your seat and shift your weight slightly every 15-20 minutes. Plus, be sure to get out of the car to stretch your legs and back at least twice each day. Once every 60 to 90 minutes is even better. A little bit of exercise at rest stops is a very good idea, since regular movement helps to keep vertebral discs, muscles and ligaments healthy.<\/p>\n

Tip #4: Keep hot and cold options on hand. <\/strong>If you\u2019re already experiencing back pain, alternating between hot and cold can often provide relief. Preparation is the key\u2014it\u2019s important to have compresses or hot\/cold water bottles and warm\/cold packs on hand if you intend to use this strategy. It can also be handy to bring along an ice chest as well as a heating pad (with cigarette lighter adapter).<\/p>\n

Tip #5: Get your chiropractic treatment before you hit the road and schedule a follow-up for the week you return.<\/strong> If you\u2019re like most people, it\u2019s easy to forget (or put off) important details in the hectic run-up to a vacation. With lots to accomplish at work and at home before you can leave, doctor\u2019s appointments sometimes fall through the cracks. Don\u2019t let it happen to you! Getting adjusted before you hit the road can improve your chances of having a pain-free, fun-filled experience.<\/p>\n

While the prospect of taking long road trips might seem daunting for people who already have back or neck pain, a little bit of planning and a flexible itinerary can make all the difference. If you and your family are considering a summer road trip and would like some advice about how to get the most out of it, please call or visit our office today! We\u2019re here to help!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

A family road trip can be a wonderful experience that creates life-long memories for parents and children alike. In fact, a recent survey by Jiffy Lube International suggests that road trips remain an American favorite, with 78% of those polled agreeing that they make the best vacations. However, spending long periods of time sitting in a car on the open road can have its drawbacks, too. This is especially true if you already spend a lot of time commuting or…<\/p>\n

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