In today’s busy world, full of computer work, an increasing number of people are suffering from back pain. Prolonged sitting can have a negative effect on our body, potentially leading to pain.
Can we deal with this problem ourselves? Of course! There are many effective ways to combat back pain caused by a desk-bound lifestyle.
Why does the spine hurt when we sit?
The human body is designed for movement. Sitting for long periods of time disrupts the body’s natural processes. When we sit for too long without being able to move, this leads to a number of negative consequences. The blood flows, but not as efficiently, so a person who works while sitting is exposed to a number of complications. This impedes the drainage of toxins and metabolic products, which remain in place longer, contributing to a change in the chemical environment in the tissues – and from there, degenerative changes and progressive damage to the body are not far away.
Before tackling back pain yourself, it is worth consulting a physiotherapist or doctor. The specialist will implement an appropriate form of pain therapy if necessary. It is not always possible to deal with pain on your own and it is better not to delay in dealing with it.
Being forced to sit in one position, such as when traveling by plane, can result in back pain. Fortunately, there are many ways to alleviate back pain and prevent it in the future, which a physiotherapist can help you with.
Causes of back pain during flight:
– Prolonged sitting: Sitting in one position for long periods of time causes tension in the back and neck muscles.
– Lack of movement: Lack of movement during flight restricts the flow of blood and oxygen to the muscles, which can lead to pain and stiffness.
– Poor sitting position: Hunching or sitting with a crooked posture can put additional strain on the spine.
– Cabin pressure: Changes in cabin pressure can cause gas expansion in the spine, which can also lead to pain.
Try this: Get up and move around every 30-60 minutes. Get up from your chair and walk down the aisle. You can also do simple back and neck stretching exercises. Choose a seat near the exit so you have more leg room and an easier time standing up. You may also consider buying a seat with more leg room. A lumbar cushion can help keep your spine in the correct position. Ask the crew on board, they may have a cushion they can lend you during the flight.
There are also plenty of preflight actions that can help during the flight. Do warm-ups and stretching exercises to prepare your muscles for sitting for long periods of time. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can exacerbate back pain. Do stretching and strengthening exercises for your back muscles to prevent future pain.
Looking after your back health is an important part of your overall health. Regular physical activity, correct posture and a healthy diet can help prevent back pain on flights and in other situations. If you have back pain, there are a variety of treatments available, such as physiotherapy, manual therapy and rehabilitation. Remember that healthcare services are available in every country. In the event of an in-flight medical emergency, report to the cabin crew, who will assist and direct you to the appropriate medical services.