Tips to Reduce or Avoid Back Pain While Traveling

On the Road

• Adjust the seat and steering wheel a comfortable distance away from your body; avoid reaching for the wheel
• Make sure both feet are firmly resting on the floor or gas/brake pedal
• Support your lower back with a cushion or small rolled up towel
• Take bulky items, such as wallets or checkbooks, out of your back pocket
• Stretch arms and neck while stopped at red lights
• If driving for extended periods of time, take rest breaks to stretch your legs

On an Airplane

• If possible, check your luggage to avoid reaching into overhead bins
• If you carryon luggage, ask a flight attendant to place your luggage in the overhead compartment
• If a flight attendant is unavailable, position your body directly in front of the luggage; place it on the top of your seat; then into the overhead compartment in a separate motion
• Make sure your feet can touch the floor or prop them on a small carry-on bag or pillow
• Place a small pillow or blanket behind your lower back to reduce back strain
• Take a “walk” during the flight to help promote blood flow and stretch your legs
• When napping on the plane make sure your head is supported
• Try to schedule a flight for a time of day when the plane is likely to be less crowded to allow for more room to stretch and move

Luggage

• Travel with lightweight durable luggage with extended handles and good wheels
• Plan your packing so you don’t take unnecessary or heavy items
• If you have baggage with a strap:
  • Make sure the strap is wide and padded
  • Alternate weight on both shoulders
  • Attach shoulder bags to rolling luggage
• Consider a backpack carry-on to distribute weight evenly over both shoulders

As you can see, it is imperative these messages are taken home so your family can also enjoy the personal benefits of a healthier life. If you would like your family members to receive these messages at home, please login to the Employee Service Center and provide a personal email address. You can accomplish this by following these simple steps:

1. Go to the nSight homepage.
2. Navigate to the top banner and click on "Portfolio" then "Employee Self Service"
3. On the next screen, click "Employee Self Service" in the top banner
4. Navigate to "Personal Information" , "personal Data" and "Edit"
5. Enter your personal email address, click "Review" , then "Save"

Please contact the Take Care team at CPCRATakeCare@cpchem.com if you have questions or comments.