Did you know that your driving posture could be responsible for the pain you feel in your neck and back? Driving can be a stressful time on its own. You need to deal with traffic, road rage and other drivers who can act unpredictably. All of these things can have an effect on how you feel behind the wheel. However, it is not only these external elements that can make your daily commute a drag, but your driving posture and the way that you are seated in your car can also contribute to neck and back pains.
On top of that, there is no one way to sit in your car that will give you the right posture for driving. Everyone has a different body, so what may feel comfortable for someone else might not feel comfortable for you and vice versa. It is important to find the most supportive position that fits in with your body. Here are some tips to help you find your ideal driving posture.
Let The Driver’s Seat Do Most Of The Work
Do you need to strain forward while you drive? When you are in the driver’s seat, it should be helping to promote an upright spine. Try to adjust your seat closer or further away from the wheel. The least amount of lower back pressure will occur when your seat is reclined at about 30 degrees. Make sure that you also are not sitting too high or too low in comparison with the steering wheel. When your seat is correctly adjusted, you should be able to sit back and let the seat support you.
Relax The Arms
Your arms should not be reaching out way ahead of you while you drive. They should be in a relaxed position with a gentle bend in the elbow. Or, if you can, consider using some armrests on both sides of you to help take the weight off your shoulders and spine.
Put Your Head Back
Your head should be touching the headrest with your chin at a straight level and your shoulders back. Think about stretching and elongating your spine as you are driving.
Try Using A Lumbar Support Pillow
If there is a significant gap between your lower back and the driver’s seat, consider using a lumbar support pillow to fill it while you drive. This can help you ease any lower back pain you might have and it will also help support the natural curve of your spine.
Use Cruise Control When Possible
Using cruise control is a good idea when going on a long distance drive, and it can help you reduce pain because then you can keep both of your feet flat on the floor. Another thing to avoid is sitting in bucket-style seats for long periods of time. This is because having your knees higher than your hips can cause some hamstring and glute discomfort.
Consider Putting Your Hands At The 4 And 8 Position
This hand position can be much more relaxing and restful for the shoulders and neck compared to the 10 and 2 position that was taught in driving school.
Fix Your Back and Neck Pain with a Chiropractor in Oakville
Is your neck and back pain affecting your driving abilities? Call the best chiropractor in Oakville for assistance! Dundas Chiropractic offers high-quality chiropractic care, spinal decompression, chiropody & orthotics, massage therapy, and acupuncture, so contact us today!