You must have noticed that if you sit in one position for quite a long time, your muscles start speaking and ask for rest. The most prominent example of this problem is driving.
Most of us spend hours in a car almost every day. Whether you're behind the wheel or on the passenger seat, it does not matter. What matters is, are you comfortable while seated on your seat? Is your back used to all the pressure it gets while driving? No, right!
Everybody undergoes some or the other back pain issues. Incorrect seating position or poor seat design often causes back pain, which is an invitation to many spinal problems.
Causes of Back Pain
Poor Posture
Posture is something that matters the most. If you sit in the reclined position for an extended period of time, it can lead to structural changes in the neck and back. Your muscles could become weak and deconditioned, thus will not hold your spine in neutral alignment.
When you hunch your shoulders and bend forward or at any one side, it creates pressure on the spine's bones, tissues, muscles, etc., causing severe upper back pain.
Accident or Collision
The trauma of falling from a height or vehicular accident or sports collision leads to upper back pain by injuring spinal discs, bones, ligaments, soft tissues, and nerves.
Overuse & Improper Lifting
Overusing your muscles and ligaments can cause severe back pain that won't allow you to drive. And if you lift any of the heavy objects above your head and you do not keep your spine aligned, it will pass on the stress on your upper back and shoulders.
Prevention Tips
Adjust Your Seat and The Headrest
The first and foremost step you can take to prevent back pain is to adjust your seat correctly. If your steering wheel is within reach, it will reduce the stress on your neck, back, wrists, and shoulders. Adjust your seat at 100- to 110- degree so that you won't strain to reach the pedals and will be able to sit properly.
Take care that your headset is positioned in the middle of your head, ensuring the proper positioning of your back and neck while driving.
Take regular breaks
When you sit in the same position for a long time, it will result in muscle stiffness and achiness, which contributes to severe back pain injury. So it is advised to take a break for a few minutes every two to three hours, move for a bit, and do basic stretches. This will reduce fatigue and will improve concentration, and stimulate the blood circulation to your lower back.
Additional Lumbar Support
Generally, car seats have poor design and provide insufficient lumbar support not suited to your back's natural curve, thus putting pressure on your lower back, and causing pain while driving. It might be necessary to add certain support to your back to prevent pain.
Don't give up the thrill of driving just yet. Bael Wellness provides you with Lumbar Support Back Cushion & Pillow - a gel enhanced memory foam with a mesh cover. Your back support throughout your driving journey.
