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Are you gearing up for an epic summer road trip? As you map out your route and pack your essentials, don't forget to take care of your back. Long hours spent behind the wheel can be rough on your body, leading to stiffness and discomfort that can dampen the mood. By understanding the importance of stretching and knowing how to protect your back on the go, you can look forward to an awesome and pain-free road trip.
Stretching helps prevent stiffness and discomfort while also improving circulation, reducing the risk of cramps or muscle fatigue during long drives. This also helps you stay more focused and attentive at the wheel, which can be a real help on long drives.
There are several stretches you can do while driving. Start with a gentle neck stretch by tilting your head from side to side, holding each position for a few seconds. Follow up with shoulder rolls to release tension in the upper back and shoulders.
Move on to seated spinal twists by turning your torso gently to one side while holding onto the seat for support. This helps improve flexibility and relieve stiffness in the spine.
But many of the best stretches for back pain are easier to do outside of the driver’s seat. That’s why it’s important to schedule stops along your road trip so that you can get out and do some much-needed stretching. Even just moving around and stretching your legs can help alleviate the tension in your neck, shoulders, and back so that you can get back behind the wheel feeling rejuvenated. It can also help relieve stress, which can build up as you fight traffic along the way.
The importance of stretching is major when it comes to protecting your back on a road trip, but there’s even more you can do to avoid pain. Maintaining proper posture in particular reduces strain on your back during long hours behind the wheel. Make sure your seat is adjusted so that you can sit comfortably with your back supported against the seatback.
Utilizing lumbar support can also greatly benefit your spine while driving. If your car seat lacks built-in lumbar support, consider using a portable cushion or rolled-up towel placed at the small of your back for added comfort and alignment.
One of the best ways to stay pain-free on your next road trip is to get a massage before you set out. Working with a massage therapist at Wills Chiropractic helps put you at ease before you set out, helping you keep stress low and pain at bay.
Before hitting the open road, consider scheduling a massage or chiropractic adjustment at Wills Chiropractic in Rochelle, IL. With our help, you can look forward to a more relaxed drive and less stiffness when you finally arrive at your destination. Happy travels!
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