Air travel

Watch your back

Today's air travelers often carry and hoist their own luggage to avoid paying baggage fees and the hassle of waiting at baggage claim. But they run the risk of sprains, pulls, and other injuries if they don't lift correctly: As you lift heavy objects, try to hold them close to your chest; bend your knees, not your back; and reposition your entire body, rather than twisting or reaching as you lift. Split heavy loads into smaller ones and get help if an object is too heavy or awkward for you to lift by yourself.

Move around

Airlines try to fill airplanes to the max, and passengers can wind up sitting in tight, cramped quarters for long periods of time. That can aggravate sore muscles and joints and also cause blood clots in the legs, which can put passengers at risk for a life-threatening lung embolism. To reduce that risk, try walking the airplane's aisles about once an hour and frequently flex your ankles and knees when you're in your seat. Hydration is also important, so drink plenty of water but avoid alcoholic beverages before, during, and just after flights.