Long plane flights are not so good for the back and neck.
Chiropractor Vero Beach, Fl.- I’ve had a few patients make longer flights across the ocean to other countries. Undoubtably, these longer rides tend to make the back feel a little rough. Let’s be honest, plane seats aren’t the most plush, roomy seats available. Not to mention, you are fairly immobile for multiple hours. Then, add turbulence in on top of it, that ride can beat you up a bit. Being seated and bouncing up and down on a turbulent flight put a tremendous amount pressure on the spinal discs and facet joints. My recommendation is to stand up, if allowed a few times per hour just move the muscles and the joints of the back to ease tension a bit. Maybe an occasional trip to the restroom will allow you to get the blood and lymphatic fluid moving a bit. This will help oxygenate the muscles of the back. Also, longer periods of being seated at altitude, you can become at risk of developing blood clots. Flight attendants are very helpful to someone with a back issue and can provide you with some ice if necessary. Otherwise, sit back and enjoy the ride and have a great trip. Dr. Thomas Harmody is a chiropractor at Vero Walk-In Chiropractic and Wellness in Vero Beach, Fl.
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