5 Tips For Managing Your Arthritis While Flying

Flying the friendly skies isn't easy when you're an arthritis sufferer. Whether it's getting to your flight on time or spending the next few hours in-flight, the rigors of flying can exacerbate joint symptoms and cause overall physical discomfort.

Fortunately, you don't have to let your arthritis get in the way of your flight. The following shows how you can manage your arthritis symptoms so you can make the rest of your journey as pleasant as possible.

Get Extra Legroom

You'd be amazed at what a few extra inches of legroom can do to mitigate your arthritis symptoms in flight. As you book your flight, find seats that offer the most available legroom. In economy and business class, seats located directly behind the plane's bulkhead usually offer more legroom than other seats. Aisle seats may also offer those precious few extra inches of legroom that can help alleviate arthritis symptoms.

Take Advantage of Your Airport's Mobility Assistance

The long walk through the airport terminal can be a devastatingly painful one for arthritis sufferers. Fortunately, the airlines often provide transport carts, shuttles, and wheelchairs to help passengers with limited mobility. You may be able to take advantage of this service to lessen the impact of your arthritis.

When you get to your gate, ask the gate attendant if the airline offers a "pre-boarding" period for those with disabilities and medical conditions. This allows you to board the plane and get settled ahead of everyone else.

Move Around Whenever You Get a Chance

Sitting in a plane seat for hours on end can cause stiffness in joints and aggravate other arthritis symptoms. Once you're airborne, use every opportunity that comes up to stand up, stretch and walk around. Even while you're seated, you can do isometric workouts and other simple exercises to keep your joints limber and prevent your body from aching.

Keep Your Medications Close

If you take medications for your arthritis symptoms, it's a good idea to keep them close at hand. That means keeping your medicines in your carry-on luggage instead of your checked luggage. Refrigerated medications should be kept cold.

Stock Up on Hot and Cold Therapies

A combination of heat wraps, ice packs, and topical creams can help you manage your arthritis symptoms in flight. It's a good idea to stock up on these therapies and keep them in your carry-on luggage just in case. For assistance, talk to a professional like Sarasota Arthritis Center.