How to Enjoy Amusement Parks with Back Pain
By Sara Butler
Every year, millions of Americans get thrills from amusement parks. What’s not to love about the death-defying drops and swoops of a roller coaster or your other favorite ride? It’s exhilarating. But you may have noticed as you get older that your body doesn’t quite respond the way it once did to amusement park rides, especially if you suffer from chronic back or neck pain. That’s why, to enjoy your thrills this summer, you probably need the help of a chiropractor!
Beware!
Even an innocent looking ride has the potential to cause you back and neck problems, especially if you already have pre-existing problems. You should know that you can enjoy your day at the amusement park without writhing in pain 24 hours later by following a few simple tips. You should:
- Talk it out – Discuss your game plan with your amusement park compatriots to decide what you can ride and what you can’t. Let them know that you may need to take breaks and that you probably shouldn’t dare a few rides that could cause you problems. Chances are that the people you’re going with will be willing to accommodate you and your needs.
- Seek out other activities – Modern amusement parks have all kinds of entertainment. There are shows, slower rides, and other things you can do that won’t put your back or neck in mortal peril. Get a map and plan some non-thrill ride adventures while you’re there.
- Go prepared – When you go to a theme park and you’ve got back pain, then you need to take some precautions so you don’t tap out early. You should make sure you’re wearing shoes that are supportive and comfortable since you’ll be taking a staggering amount of steps. If you need it, you may want to consider a back brace or even an electric scooter. Remember, you need to do what you have to in order to have the best time you can.
- Pay attention to signs – You know those signs that warn you about the kind of ride you’re going to be going on and who shouldn’t ride it? They're there for a reason. Read them. And pay attention to them. If the sign says that people with back pain shouldn’t partake, then you need to keep that in mind. A thrill isn’t worth doing damage to your back.
If you’re preparing to go to an amusement park, tell your chiropractor about it. They can give you some more tips to help you make a day at the park fun and not painful!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.