Delivery Drivers: Seek Chiropractic Care this Season
By Brandi Swieter
Driving is already a painful task when performed for long hours. Add in the fact that it's a job some people have to do for hours on end throughout the day, every day, and it makes it difficult to bear. Delivery drivers who are responsible for not only driving for long hours but also handling large packages need to use extra caution during the holiday season so they do not overdo it and hurt themselves. Some chiropractic tips can go a long way.
Maintain Visits to the Chiropractor
Sitting for long periods puts strain on the back. Lifting heavy packages from the truck and carrying to the front porch of a home can also cause discomfort. Visiting the chiropractor once and then continuing to maintain visits throughout at least the holiday season is key in maintaining overall wellness. The regular visits will help to remove joint restrictions, ease tension, and keep the back and body flexible and better able to handle the job.
Use Lumbar Support
Keeping a lumbar support pillow or some sort of cushion behind the lower back can be a huge help. It takes some pressure off of the back and makes it more bearable to sit for longer time frames. Delivery drivers are often on a tight schedule, so they can't take extra breaks to stretch. The stretching needs to get done periodically as they make it to the next destination. The support will lessen the need for this.
Use a Seat Cushion
All of the bumps along the road can wreak havoc on the back and body. Placing a seat cushion down to sit on will help reduce the shocks of some of these bumps and keep the back more stable. It's ideal for long intervals spent in any vehicle.
Stretch Before and After Work
Though it's a good idea to stretch in-between as well, that isn't always possible during a busy workday. The most important times to stretch are before work starts and after it's finished. Doing so beforehand will help to prepare the body for the work ahead and ensure it's flexible enough to handle it without as much pain or the option for injury. Stretching after work will help to soothe the muscles and ensure a faster recovery. It will also ensure a better night's rest, as many workers tend to struggle to sleep after experiencing muscle aches that keep them up at night. Stretching will offer some comfort.
Visit The Joint Chiropractic during the holidays and on occasion throughout the rest of the year to ensure the body is adequately prepared for the workload. The holidays are an extremely busy time for many people. Delivery drivers in particular have a lot to handle without pain trying to stop them.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tucson, Ariz.