8 Ways to reduce Back Pain while Driving

Driving can be a satisfying, fun, and sometimes relaxing experience. The wind in your hair, the open road, and all the freedom to go where you want with little planning or warning. But one of the downsides of driving is back pain from sitting in one spot for too long. It’s easy to get stiff and sore when driving for extended periods of time, so it’s essential to know how to reduce back pain from driving before hopping into a car!

8 Ways to Help Reduce Back Pain While Driving

1. Find a comfortable seat
I know it’s another thing to invest in. But investing in a comfortable seat is one big way to reduce back pain while driving. Most of the seats that come in vehicles and sem-trucks are not made to absorb the impact the way they should, and they skimp on the essential aspects of a good quality seat. Think of your driver's seat as investing in good running shoes. That few dollars spent could save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars in pain care once your back is shot from all that driving.

2. Ensure the back of your seat is positioned at a 100 to 110-degree angle.
Taking the time to get your driver's seat assessed for proper placement can be the difference between pain and pain-free. Consider seeking a chiropractor who can help you learn proper ergonomics or a company like Mother Trucker Yoga which is all about driver health and fitness from the driver's seat, to help you with that next step.

3. Take regular breaks.
I know easier said than done. But adding in even just one extra stop during the day to get out and stretch your legs (literally) can be all the difference between reducing back pain while driving and not. Next stop, gets out, and lunge to stretch your hip flexors. This will help your back find relief fast and increase blood flow to your lower limbs.

4. Lean on lumbar support.
What are you using for lumbar support while driving to reduce back pain? Consider tools like a BackShield or additional seat support to help you keep the lower lumbar curve while driving to assist in your body properly absorbing impact.

5. Keep your arms at a 90-degree angle.
Our entire body is connected. Nothing is separate. And one body part can cause tons of problems in another on the opposite side of the body. Check in with your arms and shoulders. Are you hunching forward over the wheel? Are you driving with lifted elbows? Or your arms or arm hanging on the shifter or even leaning onto the driver's side window. All these and more can contribute to back pain.

6. Learn how to sit so you can reduce back pain while driving.
Finally, learn the 5-Point Safety Check from the book Trucking Yoga Simple Fitness for the Long Haul. You learn proper body position while driving and standing to reduce pain and significantly reduce back pain while driving. Your body should be stacked while honoring your spinal curves in an “S” formation, not a “C” formation in which most drivers end up by mid-drive. Set the alarm daily for a quick posture check-in to help you sit up right and realign your body.

Conclusion
The bottom line is that driving can be very stressful if you’re not physically and mentally prepared. If you follow the tips above and take care of yourself on the road, you should be able to handle your commute easily.