When you go to an amusement park, you’re probably focused on the fun experience – the rides, the shows, the food. But after the day is over, you might have an aching back or neck. Although the risk of serious injury on a roller coaster is rare – about 1 in 15.5 million – mild to moderate injuries are possible and can be painful, ruining your memories of a fun day and putting you at risk of future injury.
As a chiropractor in the Chesapeake region of Virginia for more than 20 years, I have many patients who have had back and neck pain after visiting one of our nearby amusement parks or fairs. In this article, I will discuss the best ways to prevent and treat back and neck pain after going to an amusement park or carnival.
How to Avoid Back and Neck Pain on Roller Coasters and Carnival Rides
You can take several important steps when it comes to avoiding back and neck pain. These include:
- Read the warnings on roller coasters: Every roller coaster or carnival ride will have a nearby safety sign. This will include medical conditions that the ride may worsen. If you have an existing medical condition that is listed on the warning sign, you should skip the ride. In some cases, this may include pre-existing back or neck problems.
- Stretch before getting on a ride: Regular stretching – including right before you get on a ride – can help to relax your muscles, reducing the risk of an injury.
- Drink water: Hydration is essential for a healthy back. However, it is easy to become dehydrated outside at an amusement park, especially on a warm, sunny day. Making sure to drink enough will help keep your vertebral discs in good shape.
- Try out the seat: Some roller coasters have sample seats you can try before getting in the actual ride. If this is available, you can test the seat to make sure it will be comfortable for you. Even if a sample seat is not available, don’t be afraid to decide against the ride if you sit down and find the seat to be uncomfortable.
- Use the grab bars: Most roller coasters have grab bars that you can use to brace yourself during the ride. Bracing yourself on these can help to lessen the strain on your neck and back.
- Watch the track: Many roller coasters have sudden twists and turns which can strain your neck. A good way to avoid surprise turns is to keep your eyes focused on the track ahead of you. This will alert you to upcoming turns in the roller coaster.
- Lean back and use the headrest: Make sure to lean back and use the headrest when you are on a roller coaster. If you lean forward, your back does not have the support of the seat, meaning that there is additional strain on your spine. This increases your risk of neck and back injury.
What to Do if Your Back or Neck Hurts After an Amusement Park Visit
If you have persistent back pain, neck pain, or headaches after going to an amusement park, it is important to seek medical advice. Sometimes, pain can be due to muscle tenderness. However, in other cases, the culprit may be a bulging or herniated disc or whiplash from a roller coaster ride. Knowing what the underlying problem is, and treating it appropriately, is the best way to keep your back and neck healthy.
How a Chiropractor Can Help with Back Pain After an Amusement Park Ride
A chiropractor can diagnose and treat the root cause of your back pain, neck pain, or headache after a roller coaster. After a thorough examination, your chiropractor can pinpoint the cause of your pain and can help you develop a treatment plan for a speedy and full recovery. Early treatment can help to reduce the risk of serious, long-term injury.
In addition, a chiropractic adjustment can help to reduce pain, improving your quality of life while you recover.
Treating Your Pain After a Day at the Amusement Park with Precision Spinal Care
As a certified NUCCA chiropractor and spine management physician, I make sure to evaluate the root cause and contributing factors of your pain before coming up with a treatment plan. I have extensive experience treating patients with spinal conditions including whiplash at Precision Spinal Care. This clinical experience, in addition to my advanced chiropractic training, helps qualify me to treat your pain and help you recover.
To accomplish this, during your first visit, I will do a thorough examination of your spine. Afterwards, I will go over my evaluation with you in detail. Together, we will set reasonable expectations and milestones for recovery and further evaluation. We will also put together a treatment plan that meets your care needs. I will reevaluate you to make sure you are meeting your goals.
My experience and expertise in spinal biomechanics allow me to competently and safely address your back issues. I am a trauma and hospital-qualified spine management physician. I have credentials in MRI spine interpretation, spinal biomechanical engineering, and orthopedic testing through the Academy of Chiropractic. I am also a fellow in Spinal Biomechanics and Trauma which is recognized through the SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine.
If I find that chiropractic care is not the best solution to suit your needs, I will recommend the type of specialist who is most appropriate for you. Further, if other specialists can help complement your recovery, I will include a recommendation for them in my care plan.
We understand that you need to explore all your options when you look for expert treatment. At Precision Spinal Care, we are happy to help you determine the best way to address your specific needs and discuss all your options.
Call our office at (757) 382-5555 to speak to the doctor or set up a consultation. You can also set up an appointment through our webpage.
