Summer is the perfect time for adventures and long road trips. However, extended periods of sitting in the car can take a toll on your body, leading to stiffness, discomfort, or even injury. At Renew Physical Therapy, we want to ensure you have a pain-free and enjoyable travel experience.
We encourage you to incorporate some simple stretches and movements before and during your journey to help reduce the risk of discomfort and keep your body feeling its best. Consider trying these:
- Ankle Circles: While seated or standing, lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle in circles to improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing a DVT from prolonged sitting.
- Wrist Flexor Stretch: Extend one arm in front of you with your palm facing up. Use your other hand to gently pull back on the fingers. Hold for a few seconds and switch sides, then repeat with palm facing down for the other side of the arm to relieve forearm and wrist stiffness.
- Seated Cat-Cow: Sit upright and alternate between arching your back and rounding it while pulling your belly button towards your spine. Time with breathing in as you arch and out as you round. This movement helps to mobilize the spine and maintain good oxygen flow.
- Standing Calf Raise: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly rise up onto your toes, then lower back down. This exercise promotes blood flow and reduces leg cramps.
- Standing March: Standing up, slowly pull one knee up toward your chest, then lower it back down and repeat on the other side. This helps to stretch the legs and works on upright posture.
The best thing you can do for your body during long trips is to move frequently. Take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, and walk around to keep your muscles active and your joints healthy. And, if you find yourself in any type of car accident while traveling this summer, remember that Renew Physical Therapy is here to help you recover and get back on the road to wellness. Safe travels!
Sincerely,
Erik Norwood
Physical Therapist & Owner
