When you spend your days in the driver's seat, back pain is a major problem. Cramped driving positions can lead to long-term damage down the road. Here's what commercial truck drivers need to know to avoid this and find relief. 

How to Reduce Pain While Driving

1. Stretch & Exercise

The most effective way to prevent back pain is to stretch, twist, and take a walk before your haul and at every rest stop. This will help stretch out knotted muscles. You should also exercise between hauls; strengthening the muscles of your back can make it easier for them to handle strain.

2. Adjust Your Seat

It's important to start with your seat in a comfortable position so you can see the road and reach the pedals without hunching or stretching. But, it's also wise to change your sitting position slightly every hour. These slight changes can help prevent the muscle cramps and fatigue that cause back pain after sitting still for too long.

3. Check Your Posture

Your body fares best when you stand and sit in the ways it's designed to do. Try to sit with the back straight, the head upright, and the shoulders relaxed. You may need to practice, but eventually this will feel natural.

4. Take Breaks

As often as you can, stop at a rest stop or gas station to get out of the driver's seat. Spend a few minutes walking around and letting your muscles rest. Especially at night, you should take breaks to sleep; your muscles get more fatigued when you're tired.

5. Use Ice

If you do start feeling back pain, put ice on the affected area. Cold helps numb pain and relieve swelling so you'll recover faster. Massage and treatment from a chiropractor can also help your back recover from a long, difficult trip.

If you're experiencing back pain, visit O’Fallon Pain Relief Associates in Missouri. Serving St. Charles County, they offer a range of options for pain management, treating underlying causes wherever possible for lasting relief. Their mission is to help you get back to enjoying your daily activities. To schedule an appointment, call (636) 978-3000 or send them a message online.