We’ve all been there!

That moment when you feel the numbing pain around your neck and down your spine to the lower back. It feels like the weight of the world is on you and you can’t get enough painkillers down to find the relief you crave.

The body operates like just about any mechanical device and it sometimes breaks down, resulting in a debilitating pain in the neck and back.

There are several causes of this pain, and medical practitioners like Robert Talac have identified some common causes of back and neck discomforts as Disc Herniation, Spinal Steniosis, Sprains and Strains, Spinal Osteoarthritis, and Vertebral Compression Fracture.

Soon enough, the mere thought of going on a trip by driving, flying, or just sitting in the car becomes dreadful and you just want to avoid it altogether. But if you know and practice these measures to prevent neck and back pain, you’d have a swell time on your trip.

Don’t Stay Seated for too Long

This is the number one rule when going on a trip, especially a long one. The body just needs to be active or it would go rigid resulting in severe discomfort. This is why is advisable to take breaks in order to stretch your legs. If you`re driving, you should park your car, alight and walk around and do a little stretching exercise as well. If on a plane, then you can walk down the aisle.

A Little Exercise won’t Hurt

On the contrary, a little exercise would do your body some good. There are simple seated exercises you can do to help keep the pain in check. Keep your muscles oiled by keeping them in motion.

Don’t Stress Out

Stress does nothing but keep you tensed, and that’s the opposite of what you would like to achieve. Right? Tension results in numbness around your neck and back and there are better resorts like just not stressing out at all. Take your mind off whatever is bothering you, practice your meditation skills like taking calming breaths. You could also listen to soothing music to help calm your nerves. Just don’t stress out, and you’ll be alright.

Lumbar Position

Prop yourself up in a lumbar position in order to keep the pain in check. You can use the support of a pillow.

Alternative Driving

If travelling with someone on a driving trip, you should alternate in order to give your back a break.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Water reduces spine decompression and stiffness by keeping your spine hydrated. This is why is advisable to always have a bottle of water with you when going on a trip, to keep those bones lubed.

Carry an Ice or Heat Pack

This is a temporary solution in case a slight pain occurs. You can quickly stop the pain by placing this on the problem area. Ensure you place a clean cloth between the ice or heat pack and your skin.

More preventive measures

• Use a small pillow or roll-up a towel and place in between your lower back and above your hips
• If flying on a plane or you’re being driven in a car, place a neck pillow or rolled-up towel behind your neck before you sleep.
• Don`t stand for too long. Balance from one foot to the other to take the weight off your spine.