The holidays are here. A big chunk of the population uses this opportunity to catch up on that much-needed getaway. Some might choose to visit friends and families. But for those suffering from pinched nerves, traveling can be a daunting task. Imagine that you've been looking forward to your vacation for months. But now that it's finally about to happen, you're still determining how you will make it through the trip. 

Fear and doubts can consume you, and you may even find yourself asking questions such as, will the pain be too much to handle? How will I manage if I'm in a different place and don't have my usual resources? Can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve stop from happening? How will I sit in a car or on an airplane for hours? Can I even do any of the activities I planned?

These are all valid concerns. But, especially if you've experienced the pain and discomfort firsthand and would not want them to keep happening, it's enough to make you want to cancel your trip altogether. 

But before you throw in the towel, know there are several ways to manage your pain and still have a great time. With a little advanced planning and creativity, you can make your trip a success despite having a pinched nerve. So here are some tips to have that enjoyable trip:

#1. Visit Your Upper Cervical Chiropractor Before Your Trip

When your nervous system functions correctly, signals flow freely between your brain and the rest of your body. But when one of your vertebrae is out of alignment, it puts pressure on your nerves and causes those signals to be disrupted. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and other issues. Sometimes misalignments occur due to repetitive movements, so it's better to have regular upper cervical care, especially if you're the type to have recurring vertigo attacks.So, can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve? You probably know that the answer is yes. It's essential to see your upper cervical chiropractor before you go on vacation. They can help prevent any possible episodes linked to your pinched nerves by ensuring your spine is perfectly aligned and well-balanced. Regular adjustments done weeks before your trip will take the pressure off your nerves and allow them to function correctly. This way, you can be more present and enjoy the moment with yourself, friends, or family.

#2. Plan Your Activities Carefully

Just because you have a pinched nerve doesn't mean you must stay home on vacation. Instead, you can be strategic about your activities to ensure you don't overexert yourself and still allow yourself to find that balance between having fun and being careful. Start with making a list of things you'd like to do before you leave so you can research them in advance. That way, you can pick activities that won't aggravate your condition. For example, if sitting for long periods is painful, look for activities involving standing or walking instead. Or, if lying down makes your pain worse, find things to do that require being upright. Once you know what activities are best for you, schedule them sparingly to give your body sufficient time to rest and recover.Keep in mind to do your activities sparingly. You may feel the need to maximize your vacation and do every single activity possible, but this can make you exhausted and cause your pinched nerves to act up. When it does, you lose the opportunity to have more fun as you have to nurse the pain.It's best to start realistic and stick only to the activities you feel are fun and not too much for your body to bear. But, on the other hand, remember to be cautious and not push yourself too much beyond your tolerable limit.

#3. Take Breaks Often

This applies to both your travel to the destination and the entire trip. During your drive or plane ride, especially if it's long, it's best to take frequent breaks and let yourself move around and stretch. Sitting or standing for too long in one position can aggravate a pinched nerve. Ideally, you take breaks every 20-30 minutes to move around and stretch your arms, legs, and back. This will help keep your muscles loose and reduce pressure on the nerve. For your activities, make sure you don't choose the ones that will make you hold a position for far too long. If an activity requires being in one position for an extended period—like sightseeing or shopping—take breaks often so you can move around and stretch. Set the alarm on your phone as a reminder, so you don't forget. And bring along comfortable pillows or cushions so you can prop yourself up and relieve some pressure while resting between activities.

#4. Maintain proper posture

This is necessary throughout your trip, including travel and sleep. On your way to your chosen destination, ensure you are comfortable in your seat while keeping your neck and back in a neutral position and with ample support. If you're traveling by car, keep your seat upright.Lumbar support may be necessary if you're the type who experiences back pain. You can use a pillow or rolled-up towel against the curve of your back to help take the pressure off it. If you're traveling via plane, a seat with more room to move your toes and feet may be a better option. Depending on your flight length, standing up once in a while to stretch your back and legs may help. Flying also triggers swelling, so compression stockings might help increase your vein circulation. Proper posture relieves your bones and joints from undue pressure that can press on your nerves, so make sure you maintain that proper posture. It makes you look good too!

How Can A Chiropractor Help A Pinched Nerve

A misalignment in your upper cervical spine is a common reason for pinched nerves. There are many reasons why misalignments occur, but the best way to correct them and restore balance in your spine is by fixing them through chiropractic adjustments.This natural remedy for pinched nerves is safe and promising enough to help manage and eventually eliminate the pain and discomfort linked to pinched nerves. If you're wondering how can a chiropractor help a pinched nerve, we suggest booking a quick consultation with one. Essentially, a chiropractic doctor can help move your neck bones back to their rightful spot gently. Once they're back, the pressure on your nerves, muscles, joints, and ligaments will be gone, and they will slowly heal naturally, prompting better and unobstructed blood flow in your whole system. To ensure an enjoyable trip free from pain and discomfort, visit your go-to upper cervical chiropractic doctor near you weeks before your trip. Regular upper cervical care may also benefit you more than you think. After all, caring for your upper cervical spine should be like caring for other parts of your body.

to schedule a consultation today.