Americans are suffering from more aches and pains than ever, particularly due to backaches. So, you would think most would have their chiropractor on speed dial, but sadly, that is not the case. Here are some of the ways you can avoid or reduce pains from everyday life and circumstances:

Travel Aches

The U.S. Census Bureau reported 296 billion dollars of revenue from domestic travel in 2015, which we can safely assume wasn’t from four people flying. Americans are flying now more than ever, and that number only seems to go up every year. If you plan to travel, there are a few things you can do to reduce or mitigate body aches and pains from an already uncomfortable experience:

• Hydrate: You are 70% water, so you need fluids. That means water, not coffee, tea, or alcohol. The latter three are diuretics, which will make you have to crawl over your neighbor’s lap to use the restroom while in flight.
• Get up frequently: Whether it’s a walk to the bathroom or just a stretch, it’s recommended you get up once an hour if you wish to avoid pinched nerves and an emergency visit to a chiropractor later on.
• Stretch before and after a flight: Smaller airports may not have a meditation room you can use, but most international airports will have large rooms that you can use to stretch before or after a flight. It’s important to target your back, calves, and hip-flexor muscles.

What About Car Travel?

Nothing has changed, except now you’re stopping for gas every so often. When you depart on a road trip, to prevent an emergency trip to the chiropractor, do the same things you would for a flight, just more suited for a car. Remember to:

• Take a break when you can to stretch, like when you stop for gas
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for better circulation
• Wear comfortable shoes

Workout Aches

Exercise is a great way to combat stress. With the increasingly sedentary lifestyle western living promotes, it can lead to a whole host of health problems. Big cities have a plethora of gymnasiums and yoga studios. These places you can go and flex those muscles and run in the sun. However, contrary to what the slogan ‘no pain no gain’ states, if you are in severe pain, stop what you are doing. If the pain persists, immediately contact your physician or chiropractor.

Office Works Leads To Needing a Chiropractor

Spending eight to twelve hours a day hunched over a glowing, eyestrain-inducing monitor has led many an office worker straight to the chiropractor. In many ways, the office is the new factory, and with it, there are new health hazards to be cognizant of. If you are a office worker, consider:

• Getting up frequently and taking breaks
• Implementing a light workout routine before or after work
• Buying posturepedic office chairs

You should also avoid things like:

• Slouching or hunching over at your desk
• Binging on energy drinks or coffee (they dehydrate, which can lead to muscle pain)

By remembering to hydrate, exercise, stretch, and take breaks, you can avoid a lot of undue stress and aches.