Summer marks the ideal opportunity for travel and relaxation, allowing individuals to plan their perfect getaway. However, for those who struggle with chronic joint pain, increased travel and outdoor activity can pose unique challenges, making movement more difficult. According to the CDC, an estimated 24.3 percent of U.S. adults experienced chronic pain in 2023. This statistic highlights just how widespread and impactful chronic pain is.
Staying active and enjoying travel does not have to be daunting. Scott Mabry, M.D., assistant professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, provides insightful tips on managing chronic joint pain throughout summer adventures.
Travel
Long travel days mean prolonged periods of sitting, potentially leading to joint stiffness, swelling, and general discomfort. Planning is essential when traveling with chronic joint pain, as pain can significantly affect ease and overall comfort throughout the trip.
Mabry stated that during long drives, taking breaks from driving to stretch and walk around every two to three hours is imperative. Taking frequent breaks during travel can reduce joint stiffness and overall discomfort, potentially preventing pain later in the trip.
“Long flights and car rides can put stress on your knees, hips, and lower back,” Mabry explains. To minimize discomfort, he encourages using resources such as mobility assistance provided by most major airports and airlines. Knee-high and thigh-high compression stockings are also great options that can offer comfort from leg swelling associated with long travel days.
It is essential to pack and take recommended non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or medications prescribed by your doctor. Proper preparation ahead of long trips can significantly affect the travel experience of those with chronic joint pain.
Activity
Selecting the right activities on vacation is equally important. Heightened outdoor activity can lead to increased levels of joint pain. Mabry encourages those with chronic joint pain to use the resources available to them while they tour vacation destinations. Many attractions and activities offer handicap or mobility assistance to guests; using these resources may allow for less pain and an overall more enjoyable experience.
Mabry states, “There is a tendency to overdo it with activities early in a vacation, which can lead to worsening pain and missing out on activities later in the week.” It is essential to spread strenuous activities throughout the vacation, balancing them with low-impact options. Researching activities in advance can allow for an ideal gentle itinerary for joints.
Although activity and travel may seem daunting for those experiencing chronic joint pain, taking part in careful planning, healthy habits, and using available resources can allow for an enjoyable getaway.