Travelling by air can be uncomfortable at the best of times. But when you suffer from sciatica it can become an agonising experience. Many sciatica sufferers avoid travelling altogether because of the pain associated with staying seated in cramped conditions for long periods of time.

The good news is, armed with a few tips and techniques, sciatica relief whilst travelling long distance can be a reality. It is all about good preparation and being smart on the day.

Preparation

There are a few things you should do in the weeks leading up to your trip:

• Go to see your preferred healthcare professional. Check that you have the all-clear to travel with your sciatica condition and that you have sufficient medication to last for your entire trip.
• Give your travel agent a call and ensure that any problems that arise from your sciatica will be covered by your travel insurance policy during your trip.
• In the days leading up to your trip call your airline helpdesk and let them know about your condition. Request a seat with additional leg room so that you will be able to frequently stand up and stretch.

The day of your trip is all about minimising activities that will cause you discomfort and maximising your sciatica relief:

• Choose the most convenient mode of transport to get to the airport. This will most likely be a taxi or a friend dropping you off. Try to minimise excessive movement with heavy luggage items as this will potentially cause your sciatica to flare up. If you can, ask for assistance to get your luggage to the check in booth.
• Carry a minimum of items with you as hand luggage. Taking a light bag will reduce the strain on your back.
• While you are waiting in the airport try to walk around and gently stretch from time to time. This will help you to be in the best possible shape as you board the aircraft.
• During your flight be conscious of your seating posture and ensure your back is adequately supported.
• Every hour or so, stand up and stretch your legs and back muscles using gentle stretching exercises. Regular gentle exercises will help to maximise your sciatica relief.

To achieve long term sciatica relief I recommend you take a look at Stop Sciatica Now by Pamela Kihm. The book describes in detail how gentle sciatica exercises and minor changes in body positioning can provide significant sciatica relief.

I suggest working through the Stop Sciatica Now program in the four weeks leading up to your air travel. This will significantly reduce your sciatica pain during your trip.

Check out the book's home page by clicking the link to the right of this text.

Also make sure you check out another article I have written about sciatica relief through a correct seating posture.

This article is general in nature and does not represent medical advice. Always consult with a qualified medical practitioner before choosing a course of treatment.