Tips to help avoid Back Problems and Driving.

Many of us spend long periods sitting in our car either driving to work or driving as part of our jobs.

Sitting without real movement can result in aches and pains and stiffness.  Many of us experience this after long car journeys.

Here are some: Tips to Help Avoid the Potential Health Hazards of Driving;

1. Adjust your seat and steering wheel to ensure you:
 

• Can reach the steering wheel without stretching your arms (leave 25 – 30 cm or 10 -12 in. between the steering wheel and your chest (breast bone) for the air bag to deploy if necessary)
• 
  Can press the foot pedals without moving your lower back forward off the seat back,
• 
  Can comfortably reach the controls,
• 
  Have sufficient headroom,
• 
  Sit high enough to see out the front and side windows and have a good view of the instruments, gauges, and all mirrors.

2. Tilt the seat cushion until your thighs are supported along the full length of the cushion without pressure at the back of your knees.

3. Tilt your seat a notch or two back and forth every 20-30 minutes to change the direction of vibration on your body, if this can be done safely.

4. Keep your suspension system in good working order and, if necessary, add extra padding over your seat to absorb vibration.

5. Use a lumbar support to help you fit the back rest to your back – a rolled up towel in the right place will also work just fine.

6. Use good posture – try not to slouch.

7. Stop and take regular rest/stretch breaks for several minutes every hour or two.

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The following common injuries and health effects associated with prolonged driving can be avoided.

    Cramps or spasms in the feet, legs or lower back
    Pain or discomfort at pressure points on the back, legs and buttocks
    Poor circulation in the legs and feet
    Increased chance of low back injury from lifting immediately after driving
    Increased risk for degeneration of spinal discs and disc damage (herniation)

Take the time to avoid back problems, back pain and stiffness from driving the car.