Crooked Spine: Tips on how to travel

This past weekend, my husband and I undertook a long journey from São Paulo, Brazil, to Seattle, United States. Since there wasn't a direct flight, we had to stop in Chicago for a layover and change planes. The main issue is that the flight to Chicago alone takes 10 hours and 30 minutes. After that, we had to wait another 3 hours before boarding again, and finally, we took another 5-hour flight to Seattle. For someone with scoliosis, how does it feel to spend so many hours sitting in a completely uncomfortable position? Because that's precisely what happens when you travel in economy class, which is very much my case, haha. So, while on the flight, I started thinking about how to provide tips for those with a crooked spine who want or need to travel for long hours.

Today, I managed to sit down to gather my tips, and I'm writing to you from a very different place: the hotel's heated pool in Seattle, United States. While it's chilly outside, I'm enjoying the warmth in here. Not bad, huh? Hahaha.

So, let's get to the tips on how to travel with scoliosis?

Position two pillows

When we board the plane and arrive at our seats, usually, there's already a pillow and a blanket waiting for us, right? So, wait a bit because, at these times, flight attendants are quite busy, and when things calm down a bit, explain that you have a spinal issue and ask for an extra pillow. This is because the ideal, at least for me, is to place one pillow on your back, exactly where it makes you most comfortable (lower back, middle of the spine, or neck), and another on your belly, supporting your arms. When I do this, I feel much more relieved. The front pillow gives me much more comfort, and I even use it during onboard meals. Of course, this is just a tip that works for me, and, as we know, each case is unique. Still, it's worth trying next time and evaluating if it works for you too.

Take off your shoes

This tip is basic but effective. Keeping your legs down throughout the flight can limit your movements, causing more discomfort in your spine. So, take off your shoes and enjoy placing your feet on the seat. This helps you find different positions for those moments when your spine is feeling the strain.

Carry medication in your carry-on bag

Anyone who often experiences back pain, and even those who don't, should carry a special remedy in their carry-on bag when traveling. Imagine if nothing resolves the discomfort of your spine during the flight, and you don't have any medicine in your bag to alleviate it. The trip will become unbearable. So, before you travel, talk to your doctor and stop by the pharmacy to stock up on the medication recommended by them. Agreed?

Ask for a tea

I don't know if you like it, but I love a little tea. It's no secret that tea has the power to calm us down and bring a pleasant sensation. Of course, it doesn't take away the back pain, but it relieves tension and also brings a certain comfort, so how about hopping over to where the flight attendants are, at the back of the plane, and asking for tea in the middle of the flight? I always do that and believe me, it helps me a lot! Plus, you can take advantage of this moment to walk a little and stretch your back.

Oh, extra tip: ask them to add a little milk (if you like). It's delicious. I brought this habit from the time I lived in England, haha...

Have a companion

Not always do we manage to travel with a companion, right? Sometimes, we face the journey alone. But if possible, always choose to have someone by your side. This helps distract from the long hours sitting in the same place and often dealing with significant discomfort in the back (my case, haha). When we travel with companions, we have the opportunity to talk, laugh, discuss the movie on the little screen, or a book we're reading right there on the flight. Plus, we can find other leg positions because we can lean on the person next to us, who isn't a stranger. It helps a lot, folks!