Here in Littleton, we are lucky enough to be in close driving proximity to a wide array of camping areas. A weekend getaway into the Rocky Mountains is the perfect way to escape the city, de-stress, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you prefer to backpack in the backcountry, camp at recreation parks, or camp in the luxury of an RV, “roughing it,” as we say can take a toll on your neck and back, causing pain, muscle soreness, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Today, your chiropractor in Littleton will share a few helpful hints for you to consider to help you avoid neck and back pain while on your camping adventures this summer. If you would like to schedule a chiropractic adjustment before or after your trip to correct any misalignments, contact Arne Wellness Center to arrange an appointment.

Follow These Tips to Prevent Neck and Back Pain While Camping

Mind Your Backpack Weight

How you pack your backpack can affect how much strain it will place on your spine and the supportive muscles in your neck, upper back, and lower back. While most camping packs these days are ergonomically designed for comfort, it is very easy to overpack or pack your belongings in an unbalanced manner.

Hint: Don’t overpack your backpack. Pack only what you think you will really need. Pack your things so that the weight is distributed evenly throughout your pack. This can reduce placing higher amounts of pressure and stress on your neck, shoulders, upper back, and lower back. Be sure to adjust the shoulder straps and waist straps to the appropriate position for additional support and to also help distribute the weight evenly.  

Wear the Right Gear

Make sure to bring all the right gear for your camping activities. If you plan to hike or climb, wear supportive hiking shoes that provide cushioning and arch support to protect your ankles, knees, and lower back. Bring along a walking stick to provide additional support for balance.

Hint: Since it’s still early in the camping season, you may have bought a new pair of hiking boots for your trip. Before heading out, wear your boots or shoes around the house, to work, and take walks in them to break them in to ensure they offer plenty of support. If not, you might add foot inserts for additional cushioning. Also, breaking in your shoes will prevent blisters while wearing them on your trip.   

Make A Comfortable Sleeping Space

Sleeping on the ground isn’t comfortable, nor is it good for your back. However you choose to camp, make sure to create an ergonomic sleep space for good sleeping posture. This can reduce stiffness and discomfort.

Hint: Don’t sleep directly on the ground. At a minimum, use a self-inflating sleeping pad, or even try a simple air mattress, foam pad, or even a hammock. If you can, bring your pillow to provide support for your head and neck to help keep your spine aligned.  

Get A Chiropractic Adjustment

Contact Arne Wellness Center to schedule an appointment with your chiropractor in Littleton before and after your trip. Dr. Arne can adjust your spine to correct misalignments, so you can feel good and move comfortably before and after your camping adventure. Contact us today to arrange an adjustment! Happy trails!