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Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a road trip across the state, driving for long periods can lead to backaches and pain. Especially if you already have a muscular or spinal condition, it’s important to take measures for relief during the journey ahead. With the help of a few tips, you can minimize the impact of back pain during long car drives.

How to Reduce Back Pain While Driving

1. Emphasize Proper Posture

Before you take off, be sure to position your seat to ensure optimal comfort. To reduce straining, sit with your back straight and your knees parallel to your hips or just higher than them. Keep your neck raised and your eyes looking straight ahead. The seat should comfortably support your back, neck, and head in a straight line. You can add support for your lower back by placing a small memory foam pillow behind you. Slouching for prolonged periods can lead to spinal trauma, so it’s important to remain aware of your posture at all times. 

2. Take Breaks

back-painTaking frequent breaks to stretch and move around is one of the best ways to support your back. Even when you maintain proper posture, prolonged periods of sitting can lead to tension and tightness. Every 30 to 45 minutes, try to pull over at a rest stop or gas station. Moving around and stretching for even a few minutes can stimulate blood flow that aids in spinal health. If you can, trade off with another driver, so you can take time in the passenger seat to stretch your legs and wiggle around a bit.

3. Bring a Hot or Cold Pack

Those who experience back pain on a regular basis might want to bring along a heating pad or cold pack for the ride. An ice pack numbs sore muscles, while a heating pad warms up your muscles before you take off. Some heating pads can plug into your cigarette lighter via a power converter, or you can pack reusable ice packs in a cooler.

 

To relieve back pain on the road, as well as during your day-to-day life, visit a chiropractor on a regular basis. The professionals at Chiropractic Associates of Platteville in Grant County, WI, provide the specialized adjustments patients need to attain better health and wellness. To learn more about how chiropractic care can help you, visit their website or call a helpful professional today at (608) 348-3156.

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