The likelihood is, if you’ve had back pain, you’ve also probably had it when on holiday. Whilst this isn’t always avoidable, we thought we’d give you some tips to help you whilst you should be relaxing!

It’s important to keep moving.  If you are going on a holiday where you are on the beach relaxing, make sure you get up often and walk around. If you are on an active holiday however (such as skiing), make sure you do not overdo it and take breaks regularly! With your hotel, the best option would be for you to have a ground floor room. Minimising the amount of steps you have to tackle each day can really help in reducing your pain. If you can contact your hotel ahead of time, ask them if there is someone who can help you get your bags to your room. Don’t try to be a hero, if you have been sat down travelling for a while and then get up and try to lift heavy bags, your back will not thank you. 

The way you travel can have a BIG impact, so try to pack light. This will help you when you have to carry or move your bag, especially if there is no one to help you. If you are using a backpack make sure that it has a chest strap – and that you use  it! Do not be tempted to over-filled the backpack and pack for better weight distribution. If you are using a suitcase, use the wheels and wheel it around rather than dragging it behind you or having to carry it.

Whether flying, travelling on the coach, boat, car… try a choose where you are sitting. 

It’s important to have somewhere with as much room as possible and it’s easy to get up and have a leg stretch or walk about every 30-60 minutes. Alternatively, if you cannot choose ahead of time, ask if someone would swap seats with you. When you know you will be sitting down, bring a pillow to support your back or to put under your knees.

Heal > Adapt > Evolve