I have a bucket list of things I would like to see and do, and I am ready for a semi-long road trip.
However, I live with chronic arthritis pain every day, and at times, I have been hesitant to travel because of my back and neck pain. I can get mighty grouchy, and it just seems like it is more trouble than it is worth.
It seems like every year the doctor tells me my arthritis is worse. I just had an MRI about six months ago. I have bone spurs, herniated discs, and narrowing of the joint spaces. My hands ache all the time.
At age 71, I don’t want to sit on the sidelines when I can be out making memories, so I am exploring ways to control my pain and still manage to have fun.
Here are some helpful tips for traveling with chronic arthritis pain:
Start with Range-of-Motion-Exercises
It’s incredible how simple stretches can help alleviate the pain in arthritic joints. Before leaving on your trip, perform these range-of-motion exercises, and you can start your journey in a lot less pain.
Keep Medication with You
When you’re packing, there is a tendency to shove the luggage in the back of the car. I can’t count the number of times I have needed medication, and it is packed in the suitcase.
Keep medication in your purse or in the glove compartment, so you can grab it when you need it. This is especially nice at mealtime when you need to take your medication with food.
Pack some antacids for heartburn and Pepto-Bismol™ to combat indigestion and possible diarrhea. If you’re prone to allergies, pack your antihistamines so you can enjoy all of the festivities.
I use a pill organizer that allows me to organize my medication by day and time.
It’s all about knowing what you need to keep chronic arthritis pain at bay, so don’t be afraid to pack extra medication in case of emergency.
Stop at Rest Stops
Watch out for rest stops and take the time to go to the bathroom and stretch. Some light walking around the parking lot can ease leg cramps from being in the car for so long.
You may have friends who like to take a trip with no stops. I can speak from experience. It’s not worth saving time if you are going to be wracked with pain when you reach your destination.
Pack Your Own Snacks
I was taking a trip with some friends, and we stopped for fast food. I got a nasty case of food poisoning and was so miserable that I just sat in a chair for most of the trip.
It’s a good idea to pack your own snacks when you travel on a plane. Those tasty peanuts were so good, but now, the snack they give you tastes like sawdust.
I also pack a snack bag for the car or the hotel I am staying at. Energy bars, fresh fruit, nuts, raisins, trail mix, and crackers can ease hunger pangs before your next meal.
Bring Support Pillows
A travel pillow provides head and neck support so you can arrive at your destination and not be wracked with pain.
I always bring a support pillow for sleeping. It can be difficult for most people to sleep well on a strange surface, so having a familiar support pillow may help you get more rest.
Make sure you have your arthritis aids with you. These include canes, walkers, scooters, or heating pads. I often buy an ice pad at the drugstore, and then if I walk too much, I can ice my knee as necessary. I use a heating pad every day to ease the pain in my back.
Stay Hydrated
Some travelers don’t like to drink water because they will have to make more bathroom trips, but it is important to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle and take frequent sips.
Freeze water bottles before your trip, and they will stay cooler. Most hotels have an ice bucket, and you can keep a few bottles on ice at all times.
Summary
Traveling with chronic arthritis pain can be challenging, but you don’t have to miss any of the fun. By packing everything you need and making a few minor adjustments, you can make any trip a lot more enjoyable.
