Keeping Your Joints Healthy During Travel: Tips for Flights
Tips For Traveling With Arthritis
Travel is a great way to explore new places, but it can be rough on your body. Sitting in cramped plane seats for hours can be especially tough on your joints, especially if you have arthritis or other joint problems. But travel doesn’t have to be painful! There are plenty of things you can do to keep your joints healthy and happy during flights.
In this blog, the Orthopaedic Specialty Group team shares our top tips for staying comfortable and protecting your joints while flying:
1. Pack the Right Gear
Before you set off on your trip, pack comfortable clothes and shoes, especially ones that allow plenty of movement. Consider packing compression socks, which may help improve blood flow and reduce leg swelling. Bringing your own neck pillow can also help support your head and neck, reducing the chance of discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
2. Move Frequently
Whether you’re in the airport or on the plane, it’s essential to keep moving regularly. Practice simple stretches and exercises, including ankle rotations and foot pumps, to stimulate circulation and keep your joints limber. Some airlines offer selected in-flight activities that can be useful to help you stretch out.
3. Take Medication
If you have joint pain and inflammation, consult your doctor before you travel to make sure you have everything you need to manage your symptoms. It may be helpful to take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication before your flight to reduce joint pain and swelling.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining healthy joints in any situation, but it’s especially important during flights. Aim to drink at least one glass of water per hour on long flights. Dehydration can stiffen your joints, exacerbating joint pain and stiffness.
5. Upgrade Your Seat
Some airlines offer seats with more legroom or additional features like adjustable lumbar supports for a small cost. If you can afford it, consider upgrading your seat to a more comfortable option. You’ll be able to move around more freely, which can be particularly helpful for those with joint pain.
For exceptional orthopaedic care, contact Orthopaedic Specialty Group in Connecticut!
It’s crucial to seek expert medical treatment if you struggle with problems or pain associated with your bones or joints. Give the professionals at Orthopaedic Specialty Group a call at (203) 337-2600, and let us know how we can help you! Don’t let that pain hold you back from living your life. Your health and safety are our top priority.