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17 Tue

How to keep your posture while driving

How to keep your posture while driving

Paul Kochoa, PT, DPT, OCS, CGFI

I’ve got a couple patients that I see that have long commutes to work.  They drive and then come in to see me complaining of increased neck or back pain.  We always go over how to sit and improve your posture in the workplace or at home, but how can you do it when you’re driving?

I’ve written about correct posture before: Perfecting your posture, How to fix that text neck,  Exercises for the office worker.  In addition, using some type of lumbar support is good.  In some cars, they have lumbar support built in.  However, the position and amount of support is not a “one size fits all” situation.  The support that comes with your vehicle may not be enough or be in the correct position for your body type.

I suggest making your own.  You can purchase one, or you can just roll up a towel and tape it to secure the roll.  It should be large enough to support the curve in your lower back, about the size of two fists should be good.  You place it just above your belt line, after you sit your hips as far back in the seat as you can.

Once you get in position, you should be sitting nice and tall, with a nice supported curve in your lower back.  Remember, sitting slouched with a forward head is bad news.  Now, you should adjust all your mirrors and steering column and pedals so that you can drive comfortably.

With all the mirrors set, you should be able to use them when you are in good posture; but when you slouch, you should have a hard time seeing out of the mirrors. So that way, you have a reminder to keep your back and neck in a good position.

If you would like more information, please call Professional Physical Therapy and Training at 973-270-7417.  Our offices are located within the YMCA locations in Madison and Summit, NJ.  You do not need to be a member of the YMCA to visit with us.

 

 

Photo courtesy of stockimages / FreeDIgitalPhotos.net

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