Driving can put stress on your neck and back but here are some tips to help you ease the pain. Here are nine different tips to help you on your next road trip:
1. Good Posture: Feet touching the pedals, back upright and supported by the seat, not leaning forward, hips and knees at the same level and able to clearly see the road and all mirrors.
2. Support Your Low Back: Whether it is a lumbar pillow or the built-in lumbar support, having support and creating a slight curve in your low back will do wonders for easing the stress of driving especially over long distances.
3. Glasses: If you wear glasses, make sure to pack them even if you are wearing contacts; switching to glasses can ease the stress on your eyes. Pack the sunglasses too, sunglasses are not only handy if it is sunny out but can help if glare overwhelming as well. Make sure to remove your sunglasses when the sun goes down too.
4. Mirrors: Before you leave your driveway, get all the mirrors set to avoid having to take your eyes off the road or having to lean to use the mirrors.
5. Plan Your Route: Planning your route may not always sound like fun but it can save some stress on your back by avoiding bad roads, extended times due to traffic or road closures.
6. Cruise Control: This can be a great help to remove some of the pressure on your legs, hips and pelvis.
7. Headrest: Position the head rest to support your head and protect your neck in the case of an accident. Whiplash in a car accident is one of the most common reasons someone sees a chiropractor. The headrest protects your head by providing bracing in accidents.
8. Breaks: Taking a break may extend the trip but it can also help to make it easier. When you stop, get out an walk around, drink some water and move your body.
9. Phone Usage: Avoid distracted driving by using the car's handsfree abilities and built in navigation. If handsfree and navigation aren't an option, use a device to hold the phone easily in view for navigation purposes and talk or text when you take breaks. Safe driving is key.
Whether it is driving for fun or to get your to work, use these nine tips to ease the back and neck pain and enjoy the ride. Let's hit the road!
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