Taking a Chiropractor's Advice When Riding a Coaster

By Brandi Swieter 

Theme park season isn’t over. There’s still plenty of time left to ride coasters, seek thrills, and play games. Riding roller coasters is especially harsh on the body if people aren’t careful, so it’s best to take a chiropractor’s advice before going on one. With some tips in mind, people are less likely to experience injury and pain.

Use the Headrest

Many coasters have headrests that give riders a place to lean their heads back for safety. Even if a ride doesn’t have one of these, it’s still important to keep the head back as best as possible to avoid it getting whipped around while in motion. The whiplash from a fast and furious coaster could do some serious damage to the neck and shoulders, causing pain. Keeping the head back will prevent that.

Stretch Before and After the Ride

Most rides require people to stand in line and wait for a turn. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the popularity of the ride and time of day. For this reason, it’s important that riders stretch immediately before they go onto the coaster as well as once they get off of it. This will keep the body flexible and in proper form so the ride doesn’t take such a toll on the body. Recovery time after the day will take longer if people haven’t stretched adequately during their time there.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration throughout the entire day will play a huge part in maintaining pain relief when at an amusement park. The body needs plenty of water if it’s going to remain flexible and able to handle what comes its way. With enough water in a rider’s system, the impact of the roller coaster shouldn’t do as much damage. Instead of getting a soft drink with your meal at lunch at the park, choose water instead. Also be sure to have a water bottle to drink throughout the day. Every drop you drink helps.

A long day spent at an amusement park can be exhausting and hard on the body. Visit The Joint Chiropractic afterward if you find yourself feeling pained. A doctor of chiropractic will offer some guidance on getting more relief and ensuring your stay in optimal health.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tucson, Ariz.

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