Thanksgiving is a blessed time of year for most. Did you know, an estimated 42% of Americans plan to travel between Thanksgiving and mid-January? I’ll bet you didn’t know, 1 in 5 of these holiday travelers in the U.S, suffer chronic joint pain throughout their trips.

It’s a fact, long periods of travel are not good for your health; the biggest threat being long term chronic pain. Many adults suffer sore legs and glutes, tight hips, an achy back, and/or stiff neck and shoulders after long rides or flights. Sometimes painful swelling can occur due to fluid or blood pooling while the body is sitting and still for long periods of time. 

But here’s the good news – there are some very simple things you can do to stay loose and keep your body from stiffening up during travel and we, here at Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics, have some tips you can use right now, before you travel this week and throughout the holidays.

1. Move As Much As Possible
   No need to pull the car over every few miles or anything, but walking around while stopping for gas or at a rest area will promote circulation and reduce fluid buildup in your feet and ankles. If you’re on a flight, take a couple trips to the bathroom just to get up and around.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
   Water helps your body flush out excess fluids in addition to keeping you hydrated.
3. Stretch and Check Your Posture While Seated
   Subtle movements like rotating your neck, ankles, and wrists promotes circulation and will help you stay loose. Additionally, hunching over your electronic devices or your favorite book can be brutal on your back and neck. Make sure to take frequent breaks from looking down and sit up straight when you catch yourself slouching.
4. Elevate Your Legs When Possible
   If you’re not the driver, prop your feet on the dashboard occasionally. Elevation will help break up fluid and blood pooling in your lower legs. Drivers should switch off from time to time on long trips to give everyone a chance to move around.

Of course, these tips may not be enough for those suffering with chronic joint pain. That is why, if you are experiencing pain now, and want to find relief before you set out on that next trip, come see us right away at Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics. With our wide variety of services and clinical expertise, we can help you now, before your pain worsens, and we can help you have a pain-free Thanksgiving this year!

Call for an appointment today: 423-499-0003.

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