Loosely defined as pain that lasts longer than three months, chronic pain can be either constant or intermittent. When you’re traveling, chronic pain can make the experience more difficult.
Visit James A. Nassiri, MD, and our team at Westside Pain Specialists in southern California for help planning for your upcoming trip. We’ve compiled a list of seven tips for a more comfortable journey, when you’re traveling with chronic pain.
The barriers that chronic pain conditions raise are often easy to see. If negative thinking creates the impression that your pain prevents you from traveling, then it’s time to change your thinking.
Yes, there are challenges, but by focusing on what you can control, it’s possible to overcome those barriers. As your pain management partner, Dr. Nassiri and our team are here to help with travel planning.
Successful travel with chronic pain starts with a realistic mindset. You’ll do best when you’re honest with yourself about your abilities and challenges. Wishing away pain flare-ups isn’t an effective strategy. Know the effort and pace you can count on in worst-case pain situations and you’re less likely to be disappointed.
Fill prescriptions, talk to us about emergency prescription documents for critical medications. We can also provide you with physician-supported documents to detail your conditions and limitations. These can help you gain the accommodations you need to make travel easier.
The worst time to wonder what to do is in the middle of a pain episode. Create an action plan for pain so you can refer to it when your thinking may be compromised by your condition.
It may be something as simple as a collapsible cane that tucks away when you don’t need it. Focus on travel versions of the devices and equipment that help you cope in daily life.
Travel by car has perhaps the greatest versatility, followed by buses and trains. Air travel has security requirements for which you need to prepare.
Inform your airline of your condition and any accommodations you might require. Having the flight crew informed and on your side from the start can pay substantial dividends.
Understand the Transport Safety Association’s requirements. Their website is a thorough source of travel information, such as how to handle prescription medications and other pain management needs.
Don’t wait for a pain crisis. Cruise lines, hotels, and other travel providers can assist you when they know about your needs up front. It’s better to explain your requirements and not need assistance rather than surprising staff with an unexpected event.
Switch travel gears with a quick coffee break upon arrival, or schedule downtime to ease the effects of stress from your journey. Rest is a critical part of chronic pain management, and the need for it doesn’t go on vacation.
Let us help you plan for successful travel with chronic pain. Contact us at Westside Pain Specialists at the nearest of our three locations today. Our offices are in Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, and Rancho Cucamonga, California.
