Why Your Driving Posture Matters
By Brandi Goodman
Proper posture matters no matter what activity you're doing. Driving is no exception. While driving your vehicle, it's important to exhibit proper posture so you can better focus on the road and not be distracted by your aching back and shoulders.
Low Back Pain Can Be Debilitating
Most drivers experience pain in their lower backs. If you're sitting slouched in your seating or sitting too far forward with your back off the seat, you can quickly develop an ache in your non-supported back. Drivers need to worry about their posture so they do not develop chronic lower back pain that can be debilitating. You need to sit straight up in your seat, preferably with a lumbar support cushion behind you for optimal relief.
Aching Shoulders Make Driving Tough
Perhaps your shoulders and arms are the problem. Pain can set into these areas as well, particularly if you find yourself gripping the wheel tightly or sitting too far back from it. Sitting too close can affect you as well. It's important to maintain your posture and sit an appropriate distance from the steering wheel so your arms are relaxed with your elbows facing downward.
Stiff Joints Hinder Your Performance
If your joints are stiff and aching, your driving performance is not going to be optimal. You need to keep your joints loose and flexible so you can drive with ease and avoid pain from setting in quickly. If you're on a long drive, be sure to get out and stretch regularly. It will help to keep your joints limber. Drink plenty of water on the trip as well to further provide flexibility to your body.
What About Your Wallet?
Men in particular tend to place their wallets in a back pocket. This causes you to sit unevenly while you're driving. Even though the difference may seem minor, it's plenty to throw off your spine's alignment and cause back pain on your drive. You should be using a front pocket for your wallet instead, or removing it before you drive and placing it on the seat beside you or in the center console.
Drive carefully with your posture in mind. Doing so will help you stay focused on the road ahead and not on the nagging pain increasing in your back or elsewhere. Proper posture is always necessary for optimal spine health and better well-being.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Eastvale, Calif.