Seven Easy Tips for Long Flights

Sitting for prolonged periods of time while traveling on a long airplane flight can put extra stress on the spine and nervous system causing pain and discomfort. Here are a few tips to prevent and alleviate that discomfort on your next flight; whether it’s for a work trip or a vacation destination.

1.      Choose an Aisle Seat – This will allow you to get up easily during the flight to stand up and walk up and down the aisle to keep your blood flowing and muscles loose.

2.  Keep Moving-

Often sitting for long periods of time, whether it’s at work or in the air, will cause back and neck pain. To prevent this from occurring, get up multiple times throughout the flight to prevent fatigue and pain when you land!

3.      Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water before, during and after the flight to prevent muscle spasms and headaches.

4.      Pack Light – Prevent injury by avoiding lifting heavy bags at the airport or during your travels after the flight. Either avoid the heavy carry-on bags or ask for help when putting luggage in the overhead compartments.

5.      Bring Pillows – Bring a neck pillow along to support the neck during the flight and a small pillow to put behind your back to support the lower back. If you have shorter legs, it’s also advisable to have something thighs don’t lose circulation by pressing against the seat.

6.      Remove your shoes – Kick your shoes off to allow your body to be more comfortable during the flight.

7.      Get Adjusted – Before a flight, ensure that you get adjusted to allow your body to have optimal spinal positioning. After flying, get adjusted as your body has been stressed from long periods of sitting in an upright position and the neck tilting from one side to the other.