Are you traveling by car or plane this summer for vacation? Whether you are planning a short or long trip, RA can make any length of time in the car or on a plane a challenge. But it doesn’t have to be with the right preparation! Our healthcare team has helpful tips to make your summer travel enjoyable and comfortable.
Travel comfortably by car this summer with these 4 tips:
TIP #1 Support your back and keep your joints warm
This tip will help you ease the pain in your lower back when you drive. Utilizing heated seats can help relieve joint pain and keep joints flexible. If your car isn’t equipped with heated seats, consider applying heat packs to your joints before starting your trip.
TIP #2 Rethink how you push on the pedal to ease foot pain
If your foot or ankle is feeling stiff, move your seat forward so you’re pushing the pedals with your entire foot, not just your toes. You can also use cruise control when necessary to help from your foot having to keep pressure on the gas over long periods of time.
TIP #3 Ease your wrist pain while driving: If you experience hand or wrist pain, you may benefit from a steering wheel cover
This will allow you to not have to grip the wheel too tightly. You can buy a steering wheel cover or pad the wheel with foam tape. Another option is using the heated steering wheel option if your car has this feature. This can help you relax joints and reduce discomfort while driving.
TIP #4 Stretch and move during travel
Sitting too long will leave your joints aching and swollen. When traveling by car, take breaks every hour to stretch your joints. You can plan ahead by researching safe rest stops that are along the way to your final destination.
Traveling by plane this summer? Here are some helpful tips when traveling by air this summer:
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If you’re traveling by air, keep in mind that there may be longer wait times and cramped spaces. Consider requesting a wheelchair or scooter at the airport to easily get around.
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Book an airline seat that will allow you extra leg room if you suffer from a bad knee or simply like having extra space.
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Make sure your medications are in their original prescription bottles, showing your name and the name of the drug. If this isn’t possible, a note from your doctor or a list of the medications and what they’re for is helpful.
Remember, you know yourself best. Talk to your doctor about an upcoming trip to come up with a plan for you to have a seamless summer vacation!