From a thermos full of coffee to a personalized playlist, there are many ways to make driving more enjoyable. However, if you’re dealing with back pain, it can be hard to see the bright side of a long commute. To avoid that lingering ache, use the following three tips to minimize your discomfort in the driver’s seat. 

Driving Tips to Prevent Back Pain

1. Customize Your Seat Position

Sometimes, back pain is simply the result of straining to hold the steering wheel. Make it easier on your spine by sliding your seat forward so that your vertebrae are aligned and your knees are at the same height as your hips.

Next, angle the back of your seat to 100 degrees—while this might feel awkwardly upright, it’s actually slightly reclined, and it will help support your back and neck. Finally, relax your arms on the steering wheel down to nine and three o’clock, so you can allow the side door and console to support the weight of your arms. 

2. Add Lower Back Support

Even if your pain isn’t centered in your lower back, it’s important to focus on the bottom of your spine first—if this isn’t supported, the middle and upper sections of your back will sit out of alignment, creating a chain reaction of pain.

While you can order a pillow specifically designed for lumbar support, you can also use a rolled-up towel or sweatshirt in a pinch. To relieve pressure on your vertebrae, place it just above your buttocks in the area where the spine curves toward the front of your body. 

3. Use Temperature to Your Advantage

If your back pain is the result of muscular tension, you might be able to minimize your discomfort by taking advantage of your car’s built-in seat heaters. The warmth will soothe tight muscles and increase circulation around your spine.

If your discomfort is the result of joint pain or disc issues, you might do better with portable ice packs, which will reduce inflammation. On especially long drives, try alternating between heat and cold for 20 minutes each.

If you’re still experiencing back pain on your commute, make an appointment at O'Fallon Pain Relief Associates. This St. Charles County, MO, center is a trusted resource for pain management, offering everything from chiropractic adjustments to physical therapy. They can also prescribe medications to help you cope with pain on a daily basis. To learn more about their non-invasive treatment options, visit the website. Schedule an appointment by calling (636) 978-3000 today.