5 Top tips on how to avoid neck and back pain whilst camping

Research released earlier this year by the British Chiropractic Association (BCA)* and Sealy Posturepedic found that 43% of those who have suffered back pain in the past or continue to do so now cited that their bed/mattress/pillow is/was a major factor in triggering that pain. Given that those surveyed were sleeping on a normal mattress, extra precautions are certainly required when sleeping on the hard ground under canvas.

1. Before you even get there.

Take care on your journey, if its by car have regular breaks or by train or bus make sure you’re not in a cramped position. Either way when you have a break be sure to do some stretches to stop that tension building up. You may not feel the pain on your journey but tension may be building up and stretching will help to relieve this. After your journey don’t rush to put your tent up straight away have a short break and stretch again to relieve any tension.

2. Protect your back.

Firstly think about protecting your back against a hard and potentially damp surface. This can be done most easily by purchasing a good quality camping mat or air mattress from a reputable outdoor supplies shop, don’t be afraid to try it in-store before you buy to make sure it’s right for you. Take your own tried and tested pillow if you can, if not you can buy blow up ones that will better than not having one, unless of course you don’t use a pillow. Generally whilst sleeping on your side your spine should be straight with the pillow in position, this will further reduce the chances of neck or back pain.

3. Make your bed comfy before you lie in it.

To increase your comfort make sure you remove anything that may dig into you like sticks or large stones from the sleeping area before you put the mat or mattress down.

4. Lift and carry with care.

In another survey 57% of the British public believed that their back pain was a result of lifting and carrying. Therefore avoid one big heavy load and break it down to several bags. Be careful when loading and unloading the car with the usual advice of warming up, bending from the knees, don’t overload yourself and get help with the heavier items will all help to avoid a bad bad back and help you enjoy that break away.

5. When you’re away.

Take care to keep hydrated especially if you’re in the sun all day, keep a small bottle of water close to hand. If you’re using a rucksack keep it as light as possible don’t take what you don’t need. Use one with wider straps to spread the load, chest straps are more efficient at this as well. Spread the load around the group if there is more than one of you.

If you’re at a festival and going to be on your feet for a long time make sure you’ve got sensible and comfortable footwear and loose clothing. When standing in one position for longer periods stand with feet shoulder width apart.

Follow all of the above tips to avoid neck and back pain spoiling your holiday, if in doubt come and see us to get checked out either before or after but above all have a great time and create some great memories!