Camping in Your Future? 3 Tips to Avoid Back Pain
By Virginia Laird
Spring is the best time to begin planning outdoor adventures, including camping. With warm days and cool nights, it can be a camper’s dream. Some admit that while exploring nature on the journey, back pain can prevent some of the fun. Chiropractors suggest most of the back pain from which some struggle with can be prevented. These professionals encourage campers to take a few precautions to prevent such pain. A few tips they offer include:
- Invest in an air mattress
- Stretch before physical activity
- Invest in a good pair of shoes
Invest in an Air Mattress
Although an air mattress may not be exactly like sleeping in your own bed, it can be more comfortable than sleeping on the ground in a sleeping bag. Chiropractors advise that, while camping can improve your sleep, it can also be the culprit to back pain which can get in the way of the camping experience. Fortunately, investing in an air mattress is low cost, allowing it to be a feasible option for every camper.
Stretch Before Physical Activity
With camping comes a host of other physical activity, including hiking, biking, and canoeing, among others. Chiropractors suggest those who do not want to suffer with back pain after completing these activities should begin by stretching the back. This does not imply stretching should require a yoga mat. Rather, a simple 10-minute, light stretching routine can be enough to prevent pain and injury while exploring your campground.
Invest in Good Shoes
Jogging in the wrong pair of shoes can be plenty painful for the feet and legs in the back. A good pair of shoes should offer comfort and enough support to the arch of your foot to keep you from using poor posture and having pain up your spine. Research suggests that those who jog every day should replace their jogging shoes a minimum of every four months. Some people choose to have two pairs of jogging shoes and alternate them daily in order to have them last longer.
For those who suffer with any type of back pain, it may be wise to visit your chiropractor prior to your camping trip. Beginning your personalized pain prevention plan can be as easy as dropping by The Joint Chiropractic in your community. With more than 400 locations nationwide you are sure to find one near you.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bloomington, Minn.
