Driving ergonomics to prevent back pain.
Arrive at your destination with less back pain
During the holidays many of us will be spending more time on the road driving. A few simple steps in car ergonomics can make a difference in how you feel when you arrive at your destination.
As Houstonians, we are no stranger to sitting in our car for a long time. Back and neck pain can occur when driving with poor ergonomics. It is not just sitting that is a contributing factor, there are studies that conclude road vibration can add to irritation of back and neck problems.
Proper adjustments for good car ergonomics
- Start by making sure you are sitting properly in the seat. Sit all the way back in the seat and use lumbar support in the seat or a small pillow.
- Move your seat forward until you can easily push down the pedals without tilting or shifting your hips to reach. Often we tend to sink our right hip down to reach the pedal. This means you are driving for hours with uneven hips.
- You can use a thin cushion or wedge to help decrease the road vibrations.
- The seat should be reclined a slight bit to help ease the pressure on the discs in your lower back.
- Adjust your headrest so it is aligned with the middle of your head.
- Tilt and bring the steering wheel down and towards you to avoid reaching or locking out your arms to steer. This will also reduce the tension on your neck, shoulders and hands.
- If you have a very thick wallet, remove it from your back pocket before sitting.
- Take breaks to stretch and move.
