Dr. Brian Paris Shares 7 Secrets for Preventing Vacation Injuries on Good Morning Washington

Summer vacation is a time for relaxation and rejuvenation, but millions of Americans suffer from or worsen neck and back pain while having fun in the sun. Dr. Brian Paris of Advanced Wellness Systems sits down with anchor Autria Godfrey to discuss the surge in summertime injuries and tips for injury-free travel on NewsChannel 8’s Good Morning Washington.

Without fail, Dr. Paris sees an uptick in visits from patients who come back from trips in pain every summer. He attributes the increase in seasonal injuries to people going on vacation and doing what they don’t normally do, whether it be participating in extreme sports, a poor diet, heavy lifting or extended periods of sitting.

In the video above, Dr. Paris shares some tips to help your next summer getaway safely and smoothly:

1. When traveling by car, sit upright in the driver’s seat with your hands at 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock.

2. Get up and move every two to three hours during long car and plane rides.

3. Pack lighter to lessen the strain on your back and joints.

4. When lifting luggage, use your legs and knees instead of back.

5. Stay hydrated to keep your muscles from stiffening.

6. Prepare your body for extreme recreation such as rock climbing and kayaking.

7. “Work in” instead of workout by focusing on activities that rest and recharge the body–reading, walking and yoga.

For more summer travel wellness tips, click here.