Summer is often defined by hot weather, pool days, and lots of traveling. Whether you’re heading out for your kids’ summer sports tournaments, going on vacation, taking a day trip to the beach, or visiting family and friends, travel can lead to pain and discomfort. Long hours in a car or being squeezed into the middle seat on a plane can take a toll on your body. The good news? There are ways to prevent and relieve this type of pain!
Reducing traveling pain at Midland Sports Rehab and Freeland Sports Rehab
How Traveling Causes Pain
Traveling—especially long distances or extended periods of time—commonly causes neck and back pain. This can be due to awkward sitting positions, lack of movement, and the physical strain of handling luggage.
-
Sitting for long periods, especially in cramped spaces like cars or airplanes, puts strain on your neck and back muscles, often causing stiffness and soreness.
-
Reduced circulation from staying in one position too long limits blood flow to muscles and joints, which contributes to tightness and discomfort.
-
Prolonged sitting places pressure on your spine and vertebrae, potentially leading to compressed discs and back pain.
-
Travel-related stress can create tension in your body, increasing the risk of pain and stiffness.
-
Non-ergonomic seats (like those in cars and planes) offer little support, making matters worse.
-
Lifting and hauling luggage—whether it’s into your car, an overhead bin, or through the airport—can strain your muscles and aggravate existing issues.
How to Prevent Travel-Related Pain
It’s not always easy to stay active while traveling, but there are simple ways to reduce the risk of stiffness and discomfort:
Reducing traveling pain at Midland Sports Rehab and Freeland Sports Rehab
-
Focus on posture – Keep your back supported and your feet flat on the floor when sitting for long periods.
-
Stretch and move when you can – Try light stretching before your trip, during layovers, gas station breaks, or even in your seat.
-
Use ergonomic supports – Bring a neck pillow or lumbar cushion to improve comfort and support your spine.
-
Wear compression garments – Compression socks and other gear can help improve circulation and reduce tension and fatigue.
How We Can Help With Your Traveling Pain
If you’re already feeling the effects of travel, don’t worry—it’s not too late to get relief. At Midland Sports Rehab and Freeland Sports Rehab, we specialize in helping you move better and feel better after long hours on the road or in the air. Our team of rehab and movement specialists offers a variety of services to relieve pain and restore mobility.
-
Assisted Stretching – With the help of a certified stretch therapist, we can target muscles you can’t stretch on your own. This improves circulation, increases flexibility, and reduces tension.
-
Chiropractic Care – Chiropractic adjustments can relieve pressure in your spine and release neck and back tension caused by travel.
-
Massage Therapy – Massage helps loosen tight muscles, ease pain, and boost circulation for a faster recovery.
Conclusion
Traveling is a great way to make summer memories—but it can also come with some physical consequences. Neck, back, and general muscle stiffness are very common travel-related complaints that often go untreated. At our clinics in Midland, Freeland, and Saginaw, MI, we offer effective, personalized care to help you move freely and feel your best. Book your appointment today and start your pain relief journey with us.