Traveling with chronic pain can be hectic. This article discusses the various ways you can employ to help you manage chronic pain while on vacation.
Conduct thorough research.
First and most importantly, investigate. Learn everything you can regarding the neighborhood where you’ll be on vacation. It should contain relevant data regarding one’s hotel, such as whether it has reasonable adjustments for individuals with restricted mobility. Also, look into local eateries and marketplaces. It is also a brilliant idea to see if there’s a drugstore or emergency care facility nearby in case of an emergency.
Get enough sleep.
Concentrate on getting a good night’s sleep the night before you leave. Sleeping poorly can exacerbate chronic pain, so you wish to remain as rested as possible. Have a nutritious breakfast, consume a lot of water, and leave the house.
Get comfortable transport means.
Ensure your mode of transport is comfortable enough for you. Resist trying to book chairs in the aircraft’s back row if it is by air. This results from two variables: Initially, the back row of a plane’s seats usually does not allow you to recline. Second, you’ll notice more turbulence, which may be torturous if you suffer chronic pain. If you believe a hallway or forward seat is medically necessary and could not secure one in advance, obtain a comment from your physician and display it to the ticket agent before boarding. Those who can be your ally rearrange seating to make you extra comfy.
Taking the subway offers the most convenient solution for individuals who suffer from chronic pain. You have more space to sit (most train seats are more comprehensive than airline seats), and you can also stand to stretch your legs in the cabin during the ride. If you are prone to motion sickness, book a front-facing seat and bring an inflatable seat cushion or lumbar support pillow for coziness while sitting. If it is by road, ensure the car has enough facilities for you.
Drink as much water as possible.
This will help to ensure you are always hydrated. If it’s a humid and hot area, drink water all the time. Dehydration can exacerbate chronic pain conditions, and headaches are common.
Ensure you Pack right.
When it comes to packing, set aside additional time for packing. It will enable you to unwind since you’ll know you have all the necessary resources to maintain your situation. Complete your prescribed medications well before your family vacation, and bring enough to last the span of your travel. Pack them in your carry-on backpack, not in the checked luggage; doing so will keep them close at hand. Try bringing a small load you can support for your travels, so they are always close at hand.
If you are distressed, ensure you are accompanied by limited mobility. You most likely get frequent aid that you rely on. There’s a decent possibility there’s a travel-friendly rendition for you to use.
If you require a walking stick, look for one that retracts and appears to fit in one’s carrier bag. Additionally, there are fold-up seats that are amazingly portable. This is more than just mobility devices. Potable versions are available if you rely on heat or frozen packs to relieve pain. Purchase reusable hot/cold containers and find the appropriate backpack.
Take into account to use of a wheelchair.
If a wheelchair enables you to engage in activities you would not be able to do otherwise, it will most likely be worthwhile. Wheelchairs are also helpful in circumstances with a great deal of standing. Having your seat can be very useful.
Consume nutritious foods.
Ideally, you’ve been eating primarily anti-inflammatory foods at home and must continue doing so as much as possible. Experience some desserts and pleasant food, but eat plenty of fresh produce and lean protein.
Make sure you visit the spa facilities offered at the hotel.
You can get a massage to help relieve your pain. Also, the spa provides a hot tub, which helps relieve muscle pain and relax you.
Get Busy.
It would be excellent if you did other things all during your trip. Presumably, almost everyone would go to the pool or the seaside while you remain indoors to nap. Sleep on holiday is much better than just a nap at home, and by wanting to take that break, you are providing your body with what it requires to enjoy your trip.
Carry your chair.
If you do not have full rights to a wheelchair, you can carry your lighter-weight, easy-to-carry chair. Having a spot where you can relax, even if only for a short time, is preferable to overburden yourselves with considerable standing.
Article By Brittany Cotton
Published by International Pain Foundation, iPain Blog, Team iPain
