young female passenger on board of an aircraftIf you’re planning a vacation, you may wonder which mode of travel will accommodate your back pain the most. An airplane could be your best bet, as long as you keep these tips for flying with chronic back pain in mind.

Before Your Flight

  • Ask for a doctor’s note: In response to recent criticisms about poor customer service, many airlines are doing everything they can to accommodate guests with special needs. Obtain a medical letter from your doctor to prove the legitimacy of your situation and persuade the flight crew to meet your requests for extra pillows, more leg room, and permission to walk about the cabin.
  • Contact the airline in advance: A couple of weeks before your flight, call the airline to explain your medical condition. This gives you the chance to arrange for a wheelchair, non-medical assistance through security, early boarding, and help with your carry-on luggage.
  • Schedule your flight wisely: If your travel plans are flexible, try arranging a flight with the lowest stress level possible. For instance, a late flight may be less crowded and give you room to lie down. Then, a flight with no layovers gets you to your destination faster.

During Your Flight

  • Take painkillers: When you ask your doctor to write you a medical letter, also inquire about obtaining stronger painkillers or muscle relaxants to make the trip easier on your back. If this isn’t an option, take over-the-counter medication about one hour before your flight to give it time to kick in. Then, when you board the airplane, tell a flight attendant what medication you’re on so they can monitor you if necessary.
  • Use back and neck pillows: For chronic low back pain, a lumbar support pillow helps prevent slouching and keeps your spine straight. A neck pillow is great for upper back pain and allows you to sleep without straining your neck. Pack these pillows in your carry-on bag or request a pillow from a flight attendant if you forget to bring your own.
  • Keep an eye on your posture: Maintaining good posture during the flight is important to prevent your back pain from worsening. Sit as far back as possible in the seat and place your feet flat on the floor. If your heels don’t touch, ask a flight attendant for something to prop your feet on. If your knees hit the back of the seat in front of you, request a wider exit row or bulkhead seat.
  • Walk up and down the aisle: A long flight can be tiring for your back if you sit in the same position the whole time. When the seatbelt sign goes off, spend time walking up and down the aisle. If there is room to stretch at the rear of the plane, do so to ease stiffness and stimulate blood flow.
  • Use heat and ice: Heat therapy is effective for relaxing sore muscles and increasing circulation. Ice numbs back pain and reduces swelling. Alternate between heat and ice therapy every 15 minutes during the flight. Heat wraps and warm gel packs are good for in-flight heat. For ice, one easy option is to bring an empty zip-top bag and have a flight attendant fill it for you.
  • Get some rest: An airplane isn’t the easiest place to sleep, but your painkillers, pillows, heat, and ice should make it easier to relax. Breathe slowly and deeply, listen to some muscle, or read a book to take your mind off any discomfort you experience.

Get Back Pain Relief at Spine Correction Center in Fort Collins

It may be wise to begin treatment for your back pain before your upcoming trip or once you return home. With techniques such as spinal decompression, chiropractic care, and spinal rehabilitation, you can expect much-needed relief from your chronic back pain.

To get started down the road to better health, please schedule a free back pain consultation with Spine Correction Center today. Simply call (970) 658-5115 to speak with one of our back pain specialists today.