How to Alleviate Back Pain While Driving
By Sara Butler
It’s probably a daily occurrence for you to slide in behind the wheel of your car, buckle your seatbelt, and take off. The problem is that there are many ways your daily drive might be contributing to back pain. There are a few things you can do to help make your car time more back friendly. Here are a few tips to care for your back in the car from the chiropractors at The Joint.
Comfortable Space
Before you even get behind the wheel, you should make sure you’re creating a space conducive to comfort. Your cell phone and your wallet should be taken out of your pockets since they can cause issues with your hips and lower back if you sit on them, even over short distances.
You should also make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Any type of discomfort such as restrictive clothes or ill-fitting shoes can put stress and strain on your body when you’re in the car. This stress can make any pain you’re experiencing worse as it heightens your body’s sensitivity to pain as a response to the stress it is under.
Adjust your seat to be comfortable too. Reclining too far can put stress on your upper back and neck, eventually resulting in discomfort and pain. Make sure the seat is high enough for your feet to sit flat on the floor. The seat should also be far enough away from your steering wheel that you must slightly bend your elbows to hold onto the wheel. You should comfortably be able to reach the pedals as well as see in all directions out your windows.
Create a Kit
You can create a kit to keep in your car to help support a healthy back. Even if you have yet to experience back pain while driving, it’s never too early to start taking precautions. Your kit should include:
- A towel to roll up and place at the small of your back
- A hot pack or ice pack
- A car seat cushion
- Water
See the Chiropractor
One of the best ways you can help to prevent back pain whether you’re in the car or out is to see the chiropractors at The Joint regularly. They can help you with proper car ergonomics as well as stretches and exercise that will help you to stay pain-free and drive comfortably.
If you have questions, talk to a chiropractor at The Joint today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Monroe, La.