Maintaining Good Posture While Driving

 

Posture is just as important while you’re driving as when you’re sitting at your desk. Dr. Jay McClanahan at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center of Nitro, WV, shares how to keep your spine healthy in a vehicle.

 

3 Essential Tips for Driving With Good Posture

People spend a great deal of time in their vehicles, but even a few minutes of poor driving posture can impact your health and cause pain. In the guide below, Dr. McClanahan and the team at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center of Nitro, WV, share some of the negative impacts of sitting improperly while you drive and tips to follow to improve your habits.

 

Effects of Poor Posture

Your spine needs to stay in a neutral position at all times. When it’s not, it can lead to:

• Chronic back pain
• Chronic neck pain
• Digestive issues
• Irritability
• Poor nerve function
• Difficulty sleeping
• Breathing trouble and more

 

1. Start With the Back of the Seat

One of the most important steps in practicing good posture while driving is ensuring your back has the right support. Sit with your tailbone as close to the back of the seat as possible. Adjust it in such a way that you can comfortably rest your back on the seat completely while still seeing over the steering wheel – at about a 100-degree angle. You should not have to lean up to see. If you are in the vehicle for long periods, or you just can't seem to get the back positioned well, consider adding some extra lumbar support.

 

2. Then Work On the Height and Proximity to the Steering Wheel

To see properly over the steering wheel, you might have to adjust the height. Be sure that your feet can easily reach the pedals and leave some space between the seat and the back of your knees.

 

3. Adjust the Steering Wheel and Mirrors

Once your seat is properly adjusted, take some time to adjust the mirrors and steering wheel. You should be able to see in the mirrors without leaning or straining. Your steering wheel should be adjusted in such a way that your hands can be in the proper driving position while your elbows remain at a relaxed angle.

 

Improve your posture and get help to undo the negative effects of driving by visiting Dr. McClanahan regularly at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center of Nitro, Cross Lanes, Charleston, St. Albans, and Teays Valley. Call (304) 776-1520 to schedule an appointment today.