How Beds Can Affect Your Orthopedic Health
In each family trip we’ve taken this year, family members have experienced discomfort and pain, due to unfamiliar, uncomfortable beds and pillows. Even if your Airbnb is five stars, a new bed and pillow can wreak havoc on your alignment. If you are in pain on a trip, it is hard to have fun. You must address it so you can enjoy yourself. Let’s explore how and why this happens, and what you can do to alleviate or prevent pain while on the go.
Understanding the Impact
When you sleep on a bed or pillow that doesn’t provide proper support, you put your body at risk of misalignment and strain. Common orthopedic issues include:
Back Pain: An unsupportive mattress can fail to maintain the natural curve of your spine, leading to lower back pain. A bed that is too firm or too soft can exacerbate this issue.
Neck Pain: An unfamiliar pillow or one that doesn’t support your neck properly can lead to cervical spine issues. This results in neck stiffness, headaches, and discomfort that can radiate down your shoulders and upper back. When we were in Minnesota last week my mother had this.
Joint Pain: If a mattress is too soft, it can cause your body to sink into an improper position, putting undue stress on your joints, particularly the hips and knees. Conversely, a mattress that is too firm can create pressure points that aggravate joint pain.
Managing Pain with Medications and Devices
If you find yourself in discomfort due to travel accommodations, here are some strategies to manage pain:
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild to moderate pain. For more severe pain, you might need prescription medications, which your doctor can provide. If this is ruining your trip, you should call your physician and see if they will do a telehealth visit or find a walk- in clinic locally. A short course of steroids called a Medrol dose pack can relieve pain and inflammation in the body. Gabapentin is a nerve pain reliever your physician may prescribe as well.
Topical Treatments: Pain relief creams or patches can offer localized relief. Products containing menthol or lidocaine can be particularly effective. My mother-in-law uses Voltaren gel, a topical NSAID, on her knees as well as ice packs to relieve her joint pain.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying a warm compress or an ice pack can help reduce inflammation and soothe sore muscles. Portable heat packs can be a useful addition to your travel kit.
Orthopedic Supports: Consider bringing a travel pillow that supports proper neck alignment, or a lumbar roll for lower back support. These devices can make a significant difference in comfort.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you experience persistent pain despite using over-the-counter medications and other remedies, or if you notice symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or severe discomfort that interferes with your daily activities, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent pain may indicate a more serious condition that requires evaluation and treatment.
Prescriptions and Further Treatment
Your doctor might prescribe muscle relaxants, stronger pain medications, or physical therapy after the trip if needed. For chronic issues, they may recommend imaging studies or more specialized treatments. Physical therapy can be particularly beneficial for addressing muscle imbalances and improving spinal alignment.
Travel Tips for Better Sleep
To minimize discomfort while traveling, consider these tips:
Bring Your Pillow: If possible, bring your own pillow or a travel pillow that you know provides adequate support. This is part of many peoples routine.
Use a Portable Mattress Topper: A travel-sized mattress topper can offer additional comfort and support, making unfamiliar beds more bearable.
Plan Ahead: Research accommodations that offer good reviews regarding comfort and support. Some travelers are loyal to certain hotel chains because of their famous mattresses.
By taking these precautions and understanding how unfamiliar sleeping arrangements can affect your orthopedic health, you can better manage your comfort and enjoy your travels with fewer disruptions. If you have other tips for restful travel, please email them to me at ryanmorganmd@gmail.com Safe travels and restful nights!