5 Summer Road Trip Essentials for Joint Health

by Melissa Chichester

Summer is the perfect time for adventure, and what better way to explore the great outdoors than a road trip? 

Whether you want to cruise along the coast or seek a majestic mountain view, it’s important to keep joint health in mind. 

Long car rides can result in occasional joint stiffness for several reasons:

  • Prolonged sitting: Sitting for extended periods can lead to stiffness and reduced flexibility in joints, particularly in the hips, knees, and lower back.
  • Poor posture: Incorrect seating posture, such as slouching or sitting with improper spinal alignment, can strain joints and muscles.
  • Limited movement: Lack of movement and infrequent breaks during car rides can exacerbate stiffness.
  • Vibration and road conditions: Vibrations from the vehicle and uneven road surfaces can transmit stress to joints, causing increased wear and tear over time.

 The good news is, there are actions you can take to make traveling more comfortable.

Here are some tips and essentials to keep your joints feeling great on your summer road trip – or anytime you’re on the go. 

1. Plan regular rest breaks

One of the best ways to help with joint comfort during long drives is to take regular rest breaks. Engage in light physical activities like walking or gentle stretching to promote joint mobility, and try to stop every two hours.

2. Stretching exercises

Incorporating simple stretches into your routine can make a significant difference. Here are a few easy stretches you can do during your rest breaks:

  • Neck stretch: Gently tilt your head toward each shoulder, holding for 15-30 seconds on each side. This helps relieve tension in your neck and shoulders.
  • Shoulder rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backward in a circular motion. This helps release tension and improves mobility in your upper back and shoulders.
  • Ankle circles: Lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle in a circular motion, both clockwise and counterclockwise. 
  • Standing yoga poses: Stretch out with a tree pose or a sun salutation.

3. Stay hydrated

It’s a simple tip but true: proper hydration is essential for joint health and your overall health. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your joints lubricated. Carry a reusable water bottle and take sips regularly throughout your journey. This will also encourage you to stop when needed!

4. Maintain good posture

Good posture is key to supporting joints during long drives. Adjust your car seat to ensure your back is comfortably positioned. Use a small cushion behind your lower back or a lumbar support pillow for added comfort if needed. This helps maintain the natural curve of your spine and reduces the strain on your back and hips.

5. Wear comfortable clothing

Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can help you move more freely. Avoid tight clothing that can restrict your movement and circulation.

Joint health supplements 

Beyond your summer adventures, joint health supplements can complement your daily routine year-round. Here are 4 supplements to consider.

Glucosamine and chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are key structural components in cartilage and joint connective tissue.  They are both important molecular components of glycosaminoglycans and are naturally found in synovial fluid and other joint structures.

>>Discover Glucosamine Chondroitin Complex

MSM

MSM is a source of sulfur, one of the major building blocks of glycosaminoglycans. Glycosaminoglycans are key structural components in cartilage.

>>Shop MSM supplements

Boswellia

Known for its fragrant resin, the boswellia is native to the Red Sea region and grows wild throughout northeastern Africa. Boswellia is best known for its use in joint health.* Since healthy joints are important at any age, this herb has also been studied for its ability to assist in supporting joint comfort.* 

Triple Strength Joint Soother® Glucosamine Boswellia + Turmeric is a triple-strength supplement that contains patented 5-LOXIN Advanced® Boswellia for premium joint support.* It also contains glucosamine and turmeric.

5-LOXIN Advanced® is a registered trademark of PLT Health Solutions – Laila Nutraceuticals, LLC. U.S. Patent # 8,551,496 and patents pending.

Puritan’s Pride® Senior Bone & Joint with UC-II®

Our Senior Bone & Joint with UC-II® supplement contains a unique combination of ingredients to support bone health, especially for older adults.* 

UC-II® provides Undenatured Type II Collagen, which is the principal structural protein in cartilage that is responsible for its tensile strength and toughness. UC-II® supports healthy, comfortable joints and supports joint mobility and range of motion.*

Our formulation also combines calcium with Vitamin D3, which work together to support strong bones.* Getting adequate calcium and Vitamin D throughout life as part of a well-balanced diet may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. 

As we mature, the skin produces Vitamin D less efficiently, so finding the right supplement becomes more important. What’s more, this supplement includes magnesium, which plays an essential role in maintaining proper bone mineralization, to provide additional bone health support.*

Always discuss taking new supplements with your healthcare practitioner.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.