Back Pain Tips and Maintaining Posture while Driving

Back pain tips for Poole & Bournemouth drivers 

Which One Of These 10 Little Known Solutions  Are You Overlooking...

When Trying To Successfully End Back Pain and looking to correct posture?

A study conducted by the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) that more than 40% of drivers in the UK experience an aggravation in neck pain and back ache when they sit in the driver's seat. The main reason is wrong posture. Driving can create a lot of stress on the spine, shoulders and neck.

Commuting to work on a daily basis requires you to spend at least an hour per day in the car. This is time enough for the muscles to become stiff and the lower back to develop pain. It is important to carry out necessary adjustments to fit the body perfectly on the seat.

According to Robin Page, the vice president of interior design for Volvo,

"Seat comfort is best achieved with the correct distribution of weight and support for the body, and the ability to make adjustments if you feel the need to change seating position"

Symptoms of Bad Posture

• Pain in the hip and thighs
• Stiffness in the knee
• Numbness in the legs followed by a tingling sensation
• Severe pain in the lower back
• Strain on the neck or cervical spine

Causes Of Back And Neck Pain While Driving

• No lumbar support provided by the seat
• Spine subjected to jolting and vibrations
• Driving for an extended period of time
• Car Seats which tip backwards and force the driver to lean forward to see properly
• Keeping considerable gap between the pedals and the seat
• Constant cruise control of the gear

how to improve posture with these little known Solutions For Relieving Pain And training Good Posture.

Following the tips given below can be of immense help for lower back pain, neck pain relief while driving, particulary if you have already tried the posture corrector and it hasn't worked. 

1. While sitting, the shoulders should not be hunched and the spine should curve gently near the pelvis. This is the natural shape of the spine.

2. The shoulders should be in touch with the backrest. For this, the steering wheel should be within easy reach and should not require more than a slight bending of the elbows.

3. Adjust your seat and it should be tilting upwards at a small angle so that the things can be rested comfortably. The weight of the thighs should be distributed on the seat.

4. Your feet should easily reach the pedals without having to extend the legs.

5. A great way to ensure proper posture is to set the car mirror in such a way that a 180 degree view of the backside is possible. Whenever the view gets distorted, it is an indication of wrong posture.

6. Ideally, there should be a gap of two to three fingers between the hollow of your knee and the edge of the seat.

7. Lumbar support should be checked so that the lower back rests comfortably and naturally against the seat.

8. It is a good idea to take breaks during long journeys. You should get out of the vehicle and walk a little.

9. Contrary to the general belief, it is not advisable to stretch out or bend after a long period of driving. The reason is that the back is already weak and thus, more susceptible to damage. Moving around is a better idea.

10. Avoid gripping the wheel tightly and keep your body in a relaxed state while driving.

Natural Solutions for Poor Posture

Life Balance Chiropractic offers a natural treatment for lower back pain, neck pain and headaches caused by posture problems from long drive and commuting.  .

Case Study

A study performed recently showed that a man with an acute pain in the lower back visited the Chiropractic for treatment. His lumbar area was affected because of driving continuously for an hour to work everyday. His shoulders had become hunched and the spine had become S-shaped. He was given spinal adjustments by the Chiropractor for a few weeks after which his breathing improved, the pain disappeared and his posture also became upright.

Frederick's story

Being 72 years old and suffering from multiple health issues, I had lost all hope of recovery before getting in touch with Life Balance Chiropractic. I had severe lower back pain, postural alterations, constant fatigue and issues with body balance. The Chiropractor at Life Balance Chiropractic checked my medical history and made enquiries about my lifestyle. I was informed that prolonged driving in the wrong posture was the root of my problem.

Solution offered

I was given Chiropractic care for nine weeks during. My posture improved massively and the pain management gradually lessened. I am really grateful to Life Balance Chiropractic for restoring my posture and my health. 

Self care for Frederick

Along with Chiropractic care, you can try out some stretching exercises for the neck and lower back. Keeping the back upright and providing neck support is advisable while sitting. When you are suffering from a bad back from driving, the hips and knees should be at right angles and lumbar support is essential.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining good posture while driving is essential for your overall well-being. Sitting for long periods can negatively impact your body, but there are simple tips to ensure a comfortable and supportive driving experience. One important aspect is to take advantage of back support while driving, which can greatly alleviate strain on your spine. By making a conscious effort to sit up straight and adjust your seat to the proper height, you can improve your driving posture and reduce the risk of discomfort or pain. Remember, prioritizing good posture while driving goes a long way in keeping your body healthy and comfortable.

P.S. If you’re experiencing stiffness in your back which restricts your ability to move and keep mobile without pain click here to download our free back pain tips guide which includes actionable tips we give to our clients at Life Balance Chiropractic Click below to get your free copy: 

References

How Can I Make Sure I Have Found The Perfect Driving Position?

Preventing Back Pain