Summer
is the season of road trips – and many hours spent in the car. The
daily commute to work leaves many people sitting in traffic for extended
periods of time. Consequently, many people suffer from back and neck
pain because of driving. ChiroCare’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Vivi-Ann Fischer, has compiled a few reasons why many people feel pain while driving and offers up tips to alleviate some of your discomfort.
Why driving can cause pain:
--The lumbar curve of the spine is all but lost after sitting in the car for extended periods of time, placing extra strain on the vertebrae and discs.
--The spine is subjected to considerable vibration and jolting.
--Modern cars have lowered seats that are often tipped back. This causes drivers to sit with their legs straight. This position puts strain on the hamstrings, pulls on the pelvic at
Tips to alleviate pain while driving:
--Sit closer to the pedals and bend your arms slightly in a 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock position on the wheel.
--Do not store your wallet or anything in your back pocket while sitting.
--Break up long journeys with frequent stops to get out of the car and stretch.
--Place a small pillow in the small of your back to improve posture and stress on your lower back.
--Ensure as much of your thighs are supported by the seat as possible.
--On long drives, cruise control can be a useful option to alleviate strain on the feet and legs.
--Alter your headrest so that it touches the middle part of the back of your head.
--Adjust all of your mirrors to give yourself a wide field of vision, so you don't have to move your head and neck to see properly.
