Don't Strain

Now that the holiday season is upon us, many of us will be travelling to be with our families or friends. For many who will be flying, it means extended periods of sitting, lifting luggage, and walking in new surroundings. I just read an article that gave some really good advice on how to avoid or minimize the chance of injury, and I thought of passing it along. Nothing new, but worth a reminder.... The most common injury seems to be the lower back, due to prolonged sitting  and not getting up and moving. So, here are some things to do while flying:

• Get up every 2 hours and stretch your hamstrings (the muscles of the back of your thighs) and calves to help prevent lower back pain and leg cramps. I tried to do that whenever possible, if you are travveling far that also helps not being bored.
• Do exercises at your seat: One at a time, extend a leg with your heel touching the ground and  then your toes touching the ground.
• Since back pain can also occur from lifting heavy luggage, they suggest we pack light. When you lift your bag, squat by bending your knees and keeping your back straight and your face up; lift with your legs, not your back. (Also, my husband helps a lot with the luggage, thank God, because for one thing, I can never reach the overhead storage on the plane!)..
• Bring inflatable travel pillows, one for your neck and one for your lower back. They provide support and help prevent neck and back strain. I always bring a pillow for my neck, but had never heard about the lower back. Good idea.
• Do shoulder rolls to relax the neck and upper back muscles.
• Wear nonskid soled shoes and avoid high heels. This will prevent falls and ankle sprains. Also, I think it is easier to get around and easier to take off your shoes at the check-in.

OK, that's all for now.
Happy travels.