Tips for Traveling with Back Pain

Back pain, acute or chronic, makes day-to-day life a challenge. And it’s even trickier when you travel. Long hours sitting in cramped airline seats or driving on a road trip can leave your back aching and painful.

At South Texas Spinal Clinic in San Antonio and several locations throughout South Texas, our expert care team provides diagnosis, care, and support for new and existing patients with back pain. But travel can throw a wrench in your back pain management. Here are some way to stay comfortable no matter what your travel plans throw at you. 

Planning for a pain-free trip

Not all travel situations and schedules are equally stressful for a pain-prone back. In fact, if you can control your physical position, and the timing of your trip, you may be able to save yourself from uncomfortable back aches and pains.

• If possible, spring for a business or first-class ticket, getting the extra room and space you need to stay comfortable
• Book early so you have your choice of seats, and try for an aisle seat if you can
• Try to travel at off-peak times of the day, so that you can skip long lines
• Contact TSA Cares at 855-787-2227 for support on getting through security with comfort and ease
• Contact airports and train stations to ask about accessibility and available support — a wheelchair can make a big difference for people with back pain

Packing your comfort kit

When you travel, it’s essential to have the supplies you need to keep yourself comfortable after a long day. Here are some of the things to pack in your comfort kit:

• A small pillow
• A foldable foot rest
• A light blanket
• Heat wraps
• Cold packs
• Soothing creams
• Your medication in the original containers for easy passage through security and customs

Also, pay attention to your luggage, packing light when possible, and using luggage with wheels that doesn’t strain your back

Managing your back pain condition

Talk to your provider at South Texas Spinal Clinic about the best strategies for managing your back pain at home and while traveling. In general, back pain patients can often benefit from management strategies including:

• Resting and stretching frequently, ideally standing and moving every 20-30 minutes
• Planning out a back-safe itinerary, with plenty of rest time
• Wearing supportive, comfortable clothing and footwear
• Reducing stress and using stress management techniques to prevent pain flare-ups
• Staying hydrated and well-rested to support your whole-body health and wellness

For help planning for your next big trip, and for diagnosis and treatment services that may be able to reduce or totally resolve your back pain symptoms, get in touch with the team of back pain experts at South Texas Spinal Clinic today. 

Schedule your appointment over the phone, or book online.