AVOID POST HOLIDAY BLUES
We all tend to pack too much ‘just in case’. Then we have to start to manhandle the suitcase to get it downstairs; into the car or taxi; out of it again; onto a trolley; onto the check in desk.
That’s five times we have picked up that suitcase – usually when we are stressed; doing so quickly because there is a queue behind us, using a trolley that has a mind of its own – before we have even arrived on holiday. Then we do it all in reverse to get ourselves home .
If you already have a back problem or finding lifting causes problems with your back then here are a few tips to bear in mind so that by the time you return from your holiday you feel in the pink – not blue!
- Take your empty suitcase downstairs and pack it there.
- When you pull the case if it is on wheels, always make sure that you lightly brace your abdomen and that you don’t twist while you do so.
- Buy a suitcase with the biggest wheels – this reduces friction and makes the case easier to pull.
- When you are grabbing the case off the carousel, again brace your abdomen, slightly bend your knees and use your hips to lower yourself to lift – just like a weightlifter – so you ‘spare’ your spine. If the carousel is dragging it away from you or you can’t lift your case cleanly, then instead of panicking and lifting awkwardly – leave it until it comes round again!
- Write down what you are going to wear each day and evening so you don’t overpack with things you will never wear.
- Do you need to take suncream etc with you – those bottles are heavy and often cheaper in other countries.
- If you must use the over head lockers on a plane, don’t over extend while you do so – brace and lean back using your hips – but it is better to put your bag under the seat in front of you if you can.
If you still manage to irritate your back on holiday – do give us a call – chiropractors at the Avenue Clinic in Southampton will put the sunshine back into your life!