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By Dr. Virginia Nsitem
Pride Health Columnist
Can driving aggravate my back pain? This article will provide tips to reduce the low back pain and discomfort you may experience when driving your vehicle.
Adjust the vehicle according to your body. That means, adjust the seat to ensure that your thighs are fully supported. Make sure that you can reach the steering wheel with your arms still bent at the elbows. Make sure that you can reach the pedals on the floor of the car easily, without having to extend your leg to reach down.
Use a portable lumbar support for your car seat if you require extra back support. Otherwise, try using a rolled-up towel or T-shirt placed at the low back for extra support.
Break up long distance driving trips with frequent breaks to stretch your spine, arms, and legs.
Avoid driving over potholes and unpaved roads. The extra bumps on the road can cause you to jerk up and down, adding unnecessary stress on the joints of the spine.
Stretch your spine, arms, and legs before lifting heavy loads or pieces of luggage after a long driving trip.
Dr. Virginia Nsitem is a chiropractor specializing in laser therapy for muscle, joint and nerve injuries, and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences in Canada. She may be reached at (905) 275-4993, or by email at totalhealth@bellnet.ca.
