Traveling with Pain

Thinking of traveling outside of Utah this summer? Vacations are supposed to be refreshing and relaxing, but unfortunately, chronic pain conditions combined with a change in routine can get in the way of enjoying your vacation.  

To enjoy your time away to the fullest, there may be some questions you should consider.

How is the weather where you are going? Is it humid or dry? While researchers are still trying to figure out why, many patients suffering from joint pain report that their pain gets worse in humid climates, or when it is about to rain. If you plan on walking a lot in a climate like this, consider packing light. You do not need excessive weight on your joints to bring more pain in addition to the weather.

Do you have enough medication? One of the worst things you can do is run out of your pain medication half way through your trip. This can be particularly challenging if you are in a place that does not speak your native language or an exotic location without pharmacy access. Over-the-counter pain medication can be your next best option, but often, it can only do so much. Talk to your pharmacist or your Southwest Spine and Pain physician about getting your prescription refilled early.

Look again at your itinerary. Will your destination have benches where you can rest comfortably if your pain flares up? Will your tour guide provide healthy meals and have extra water if you need it? Is there an alternative route so you do not have to climb uneven stairs? Sometimes, websites do not list these seemingly small things that can make all the difference when trying to have a pain-free trip. Try to find a phone number and call and ask if your destination has these important amenities.

So after you have addressed all of those questions, it’s time to enjoy your trip! Right? Even though answering some questions and doing a little extra research may have helped you get all of your pre-planning done, there is still a possibility that you may experience pain during the trip. To a lower your chances of a pain flare up, consider these tips:

  • Get a good night’s rest. – You may have packed your vacation with a ton of things to do and see, but try not go to bed too late and wake up too early. Studies have shown that losing sleep can actually make pain worse. So take advantage of the comfy beds and room service hot green tea.
  • Wear comfortable clothes – Don’t dress to impress, dress to have less pain! Be sure to wear your sweats and walking shoes for excursions and save the nice dress shoes for dinner when you can be seated and don’t have to walk a lot.
  • Ask for assistance during your flight – The flight crew is there to help you, and all you have to do is ask. If you need it, have them put your carry on into the bins, get you a blanket, or more water.

You know your body best, so you can add your own tips as well, but the bottom line is that you plan for your pain before your trip so you don’t have to worry about pain during your trip. If you have any questions about how soon you can travel, prescription information, or want to voice your concerns about pain during your summer vacation, please don’t hesitate to call Southwest Spine and Pain Center.

If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With multiple locations across the state of Utah, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!

The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.