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How To Travel With Arthritis

From Carol & Richard Eustice,
Your Guide to Arthritis.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD
With planning and forethought, a vacation doesn't have to be a "bad idea" for a person with arthritis.

Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Variable

Here's How:

  1. Talk to your doctor about your travel plans and seek his/her advice.

  2. Make your reservations early to assure your needs will be met.

  3. When traveling by air, book non-stop flights if possible or allow ample time between connecting flights.

  4. Choose a seat on the airplane which has extra leg room.

  5. If walking is a problem, request a wheelchair when booking the flight.

  6. Keep medications and important items in a light carry-on bag.

  7. Use the restroom in the terminal before boarding the plane.

  8. Take advantage of pre-boarding for your flight so you don't have to climb over other people to get into your seat.

  9. When booking a hotel room, choose a handicapped access room or a room close to the elevator.

  10. Use valet parking whenever available or necessary.

  11. If traveling by car, take frequent rest stops to minimize stiffness.

  12. Use lightweight luggage on wheels.

  13. Pack light and remember any assistive equipment you might need.

  14. Pack extra medications, copies of your prescriptions, your doctor's name and phone number, and a summary of your medical history in preparation for delays or emergencies.

Tips:

  1. Put aside your reluctance and fear of traveling.

  2. It helps to have someone accompany you instead of traveling alone.

  3. Take short trips at first and see how you manage.

Updated: May 18, 2007
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