I will be driving quite a bit next week to see my family for Christmas. Some of my most painful times are sitting in one position in the car. Does anyone have suggestions on how to make a road trip more bearable? What do you do to manage your pain when traveling?
Having a car with seat warmers has helped me more than I could've imagined! However, have a small pillow or even wrapping up a shirt of jacket and putting it under my lower back helps when riding in a car without warming seats (or when I'm stuck in the backseat). I agree with @A MyFibroTeam Member that taking regular stretch breaks is essential. I'd also say stay hydrated. Maybe check out "Bucky" brand or other brands of those neck pillows! I always have mine for long trips so that I can relax my neck while not driving. My dad also uses his while driving. Since I have trouble maintaining a normal temperature, I also bring comfy layers to wear in the car so that I can easily add or subtract material instead of changing the fan thermostat. I hope at least one of those ideas is helpful! Good luck and Merry Christmas!
You have to make sure you can hit rests stops maybe every hour to get out and stretch and take a short walk. Our muscles do not like being in one position for too long. It can be a bit of a pain in the butt but that's better than more pain. I also would bring those heat patches you can buy at drug stores because they stay warm for hours and may stop your muscles from tightening up more.
My husband and I stop for "blood clot checks" (we jokingly call them) every two hours. I try to make it fun by looking for fun places to stop like the biggest truck stop in the U.S. or something. Then we just walk around and stretch for a bit. It helps.
Thanks for all your suggestions. @A MyFibroTeam Member I just ordered a neck pillow that will arrive before my trip. I know getting out of the car every hour is essential. Just need to make myself do it and plan the extra time into our trip. @A MyFibroTeam Member I will also bring some heat patches. Great idea!
Yes heated seat pad is great. You can buy heated car seat that plugs into cigarettes lighter. Also I have a pillow behind my back and use my neck. Stretching a lot.