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Driving Ergonomics

 

VEHICLE SEATING

Sitting places far greater stress on the discs in your low back than standing or lying down.

There are 3 natural curves in your spine and it is important to maintain and support these curves. The most important one to consider in sitting is the low back or lumbar region. This area should curve inward a little.

You should stop and get out of your vehicle in a safe place every 1-2 hour, more frequently if you have a back injury. You do not need to do special exercises just change your position for a few minutes.

These items should be considered when doing a check of your seating position in your vehicle:

  1. You should be seated in a fairly upright position.
  2. Your knees should not be higher than your hips. It reminds you to sit up!
  3. You should be able to reach the gas and brake without stretching.
  4. You should sit with good posture and then adjust your rearview mirror.

Do not readjust later - let it remind you to sit up!

  1. Alternate seat back position occasionally to decrease pressure on discs. Tilt it back slightly for a while, then bring it back upright.
  2. Try using a small towel roll behind low back at waist level for support.
  3. Don’t forget to not be closer to your airbag than you need to be!


Jean Simons, PT
HealthSouth

Spring 2000