Airline Fees May Prevent Back Injuries

Airline luggage fees has us all thinking that less is more.  There are still times, however, when I schlep luggage.  I’ve had my share of pulls and strains in the process.

In fact, Jeff and I have both had airport escalator accidents.  So take extra care when bringing rolling luggage on escalators:

• Mine happened as a new employee traveling with the boss for the first time.  I had our trade show materials in boxes and the contents spilled out down the escalator with me and my boss in pursuit.  The job lasted only a year.
• Jeff recently dragged two 50-pound wheeled suitcases onto an escalator at San Diego airport.  One bag caught against the wall of the escalator, throwing Jeff backwards onto the escalator.  While he luckily didn’t kill himself, he did fly back to Hawaii somewhat bloody.

I recently saw that the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has recommendations to help prevent back injuries.

Last year, more than 50,000 of us were treated in hospital emergency rooms, doctors’ offices, and clinics for luggage-related injuries. This according to a statement by the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.

How to avoid starting your Hawaii vacation with back strain:

Don’t carry a heavy suitcase for a prolonged period of time.  Pay the extra money for a luggage cart.

Exercise caution in lifting and holding bags when placing them in, and removing them from, baggage claim carousels, overhead or under-seat compartments.  Do I sound like a flight attendant?

Chances of an injury are much greater when a person has been sitting still for a long period of time (as when on a plane) and the luggage is over-packed and especially heavy.  I like to stretch first before lifting.

As with any heavy lifting, bend at the knees and lift luggage with leg muscles, not back and waist, and avoid shifting your spine.  Try to carry luggage as close to the body as possible.

When raising luggage to place it in an overhead compartment, first lift it onto the armrest or seat top.  Then lift it up into the bin.

When purchasing new luggage, look for a sturdy, yet lighter pieces with wheels and multiple handles.

If you have any tips for avoiding back problems when traveling, be sure to share your comments.