To start daily stretching of your legs and hamstrings, find any place to sit, including the plane. Haase recommends putting one leg up under the seat, then flex your foot and lift it. Hold it for 5 seconds and then repeat as time permits. To stretch calves and lower hips, take one step and then lean forward, keeping your trunk vertical. This can be done while standing in airport lines.
Assemble a "pain-be-gone" travel kit for chronic pain. It includes a flexible splint to immobilize trouble areas, vitamin C and ibuprofen for inflammation and a $4 container of Epsom salts to use when you reach your destination. Epsom salts contain oxygen to invigorate and magnesium for muscle relaxation and mood elevation. It is a good idea to take a list of health care providers that practice in your travel destination areas.
Consult your health care providers about taking prescriptions and over-the-counter medications and about any special conditions, including pregnancy, a physical disability or if you are at risk of deep-vein thrombosis from sitting.
Follow medication directions.Treatment starts with prevention: Take ibuprofen before you depart to prevent inflammation. Take prescription pain medicine if necessary, and if you're still hurting, put ice on it. Use a flexible splint to immobilize your back, for instance, allowing it to rest. Take a hot bath with Epsom salts to help your muscles relax. If it carries over to the next day, most chiropractor or emergency rooms will treat you.
Ask your agent about travel insurance. It's a must for international trips outside of urban areas if medical care isn't available. The upside is there's no ban on pre-existing conditions, making a trip to a chiropractor or the emergency room easier.