Spending a lot of time driving, whether for work or pleasure, is hard on your body, especially your spine. If you constantly endure neck pain, naturopathic services—alternative medicine that uses natural, self-healing, and non-invasive techniques—can effectively treat aches by using treatments including acupuncture. Below are the three best tips for avoiding neck pain caused by driving to improve your overall well-being.

How To Prevent Driving-Induced Neck Pain

1. Have Better Support

Part of the reason driving causes neck pain is because car seating typically lacks the support your spine needs, stressing your back muscles and joints. When properly positioned, your headrest should touch the middle of the back of your head so you can rest against it. For improved back support, you can place a small pillow behind your lower back, which will help maintain your spine’s natural alignment and curvature. Lumber support devices designed specifically for car use are also viable options if you’re unable to find a suitable pillow, and your naturopathic service provider may be able to recommend other solutions.

2. Protect Your Eyes

Eye strain leads to muscle tension in the back, neck, and head due to heavy squinting and leaning forward to see. Your seat and mirrors should all be adjusted so that you can see out of them without having to crane or extend your neck. On sunny days, wear quality sunglasses and use your car’s visors to minimize brightness so you don’t have to sit in awkward positions to avoid the sun.

3. Take It Easy

When you know you’ll be driving more than an hour, plan on stopping periodically to give your body a break. During stops, do light stretches that target the neck and back, and walk laps around the area to restore proper circulation. Using cruise control while driving will also reduce the strain on your back and neck, as you’ll be able to rest your legs. After every long journey, engage in practices that reduce muscle tension, such as naturopathic services like acupuncture.

At the Ellenburg Center for Natural Medicine in Anchorage, AK, you’ll receive pain-relieving naturopathic services at expert levels, whether you have neck pain or another condition. Their primary physician, licensed acupuncturist Dr. Ellenburg, possesses a wealth of experience in practicing natural medicine and is affiliated with the American College for Advancement in Medicine. Naturopathic treatments are tailored to each patient’s needs and are designed to catalyze your body’s natural healing abilities for safe, effective relief. Learn about their naturopathic services online, and call (907) 563-2366 to schedule your appointment.