How to Maintain Good Driving Posture

Do you ever suffer back pain while driving? Do you feel a burning sensation between your shoulder blades or tension in your neck when you’re behind the wheel? Pain and discomfort may be signs of a poor driving posture. Below are five tips for driving with good ergonomic posture.

1- Sit up straight with relation to the steering wheel. To prevent poor posture, try this trick: tilt your rearview mirror slightly upward. This will force you to sit straight in order to see in the mirror. Recline the seat at a 20 degree angle. If the seat is hollow or soft, add a small cushion behind your lower back to ensure your spine remains in the right position.

2- Make sure you are at a distance of at least 25 cm from the steering wheel: you will be better protected if the airbags were to deploy.

3- Adjust the seat so that your left foot is pressed to the floor. Ideally, your knees should be aligned with your hips.

4- The top of the steering wheel should be level with your chin. Extend your arms and place your hands on the steering wheel: if you are at the right distance, your wrists will be bent and your shoulder blades will rest firmly on the seat. When you drive, keep your hands in the 9-3 position. Used by Formula 1 drivers, this position allows more flexibility.

5- The headrest is there to protect your neck but, unfortunately, 90% of people don’t make the necessary adjustments. In a rear-end collision or when making a sudden stop, wrong positioning of the headrest increases the risk of whiplash injuries. The headrest should be no more than 10 cm from your head with the middle level with your eyes or the top of your ears.

During a long trip, wear comfortable clothes that will not interfere with your movements and blood circulation. Stop every two hours to get out and stretch. A good ergonomic posture will make you feel less tired and will make you a safer driver.