The peak summer vacation season, from late July to early August, is approaching.
People often visit various water activity spots such as beaches, valleys, and water parks, but it is important to be cautious as improper posture or excessive activity can lead to spinal disorders.
Since vacations often involve traveling to other regions, people tend to drive for longer periods than usual, which can cause fatigue to accumulate in the spine due to tension.
It is important to maintain proper posture while driving. Sit with your hips pushed deep into the seat, and the distance from the steering wheel should allow your knees to be slightly bent when the brake is fully pressed. The seatback should be set at about 95 to 100 degrees to avoid leaning too far back, and it is recommended to take breaks and stretch at rest areas at least once every two hours.
When traveling by airplane or train, maintain proper posture by sitting with your hips deep in the seat and keeping your back straight. It is also helpful to stand up occasionally to stretch lightly or walk along the aisle. If you have a history of spinal disorders, use a cushion to support your lower back. When watching movies or playing games on electronic devices, your posture may deteriorate, so try to keep the screen at eye level or avoid such activities.
Swimming is known to be beneficial for the spine and joints due to its buoyancy and cushioning effects. However, most water activities enjoyed during vacations take place in water parks, valleys, or the sea, where currents can put strain on spinal health.
In valleys, the terrain can be irregular and slippery due to moss, so it is essential to wear non-slip shoes and be especially careful when moving around.
Even if the valley water appears clear, the actual depth may differ due to shadows from nearby trees and rocks. Diving or jumping incorrectly can result in injuries to the cervical spine or head, potentially causing paralysis, so it can be very dangerous.
In water parks or during water leisure activities, sudden impacts from fast currents or abrupt changes in direction can be transmitted directly to the spine. Since there is usually no safety equipment other than life jackets, it is important to warm up properly to loosen muscles and joints, follow safety rules, and avoid overexertion.
An Junyoung, director of the Spine Center at Daedong Hospital (neurosurgeon), advised, "During the summer, many patients visit the neurosurgery department after slipping and falling in wet areas, resulting in compression fractures, or when symptoms of pre-existing spinal disorders worsen after water activities. While water activities in the hot summer can be enjoyable and memorable, it is essential to follow safety rules and choose activities suited to your physical condition for a healthy vacation."
If you experience spinal pain after your vacation, you should rest in bed. If you have a pre-existing spinal disorder or if the pain persists for more than three days, it is recommended to visit a medical institution for a diagnosis.
If spinal injury is suspected due to a fall or other accident, quickly call 119 for help. Do not attempt to force the patient to stand or move, as this may worsen nerve damage.
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