Why an Osteopath Says a Tennis Ball Can Ease Stiffness on a Long Flight

How a Tennis Ball Can Help During Air Travel

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Long hours in a cramped seat can leave anyone feeling stiff and sore. Licensed osteopath and sleep therapist Tracey Hannigan says a tennis ball can be a useful tool for releasing that muscular tension, and it takes up almost no space in your carry-on.

Hannigan's method: place the ball in the center of a towel and roll the towel up to hold it in place. You can then roll the towel-and-ball combination across your hips, legs, or shoulders to soothe tight muscles. For neck tightness, she suggests turning your chin toward your armpit while applying gentle pressure. To relieve lower-back tension, cross your legs and lean slightly forward, as if reaching your elbow toward your upper leg.

Traveler Tips and Extra Advice

One traveler reports placing the ball at the base of the spine, near the tailbone, when sitting for long periods in a seat. This approach is catching on among passengers looking for ways to ease in-flight discomfort.

KLM staff member Esther Stuurrus also offered a hotel safety tip: roll a bottle of water under the bed to check that nothing or no one is hiding there.

Cotidianul recently ran a feature on using tennis balls during long flights.

People with existing health conditions or chronic pain should consult a healthcare professional before trying these techniques. That can help prevent complications and ensure the methods are used safely while traveling.

For many passengers, a tennis ball can be an effective, low-cost way to reduce the discomfort of long-haul travel and support overall well-being on the road. Still, individual health matters, so checking with a doctor before relying on these stretches and pressure techniques is always a sensible step.