Pay Attention to
Positioning
If youre like the majority of
Americans, making your commute
by car, the positioning of
your seat and steering wheel can
have an impact on muscle pain
and tension. Forces of acceleration
and deceleration, vibrations
and the active use of your feet
while driving exacerbate the already
unhealthy practice of prolonged
sitting. The most common
type of discomfort associated
with driving is lower back
pain. Fortunately, a number of
ergonomic products, like
lumbar support cushions,
neck pillows and memory
foam seat covers are available
to help you feel more comfortable.
Adjust your back rest to
achieve proper driving posture
by positioning it to a 100 degree
incline; sitting in a position that
is too slumped or too rigidly upright
will contribute to back pain.
Make sure you do not have to
strain to reach the steering or see
your rear-view mirrors, and adjust
accordingly to ensure your
comfort.
Take Steps to
Reduce Stress
Commuting can be stressful,
whether its another driver cutting
you off, a loud and busy bus
ride or missing your train. Stress
triggers increased blood pressure,
muscle tension and inflammation
throughout the body,
which exacerbates chronic pain.
Music and sound can have a profound
calming effect and keep
your mind focused in
a positive way. You
can also listen to a
guided meditation
and try breathing techniques
to help yourself
relax. Giving yourself
extra time to commute also
leaves you feeling less rushed
and flustered, improving your
outlook throughout your travels.
Move as Much
as Possible
Your spine is designed for movement,
and staying in one position
for 30 minutes or more can lead
to back pain. Before leaving your
house for work, take a few
minutes to stretch as you prepare
for the journey ahead. If youre
embarking on an especially long
commute, plan ahead to take
short breaks to get out and
stretch. If you cant take the time
to get out of the vehicle, or
youre stuck in traffic, try incorporating
movement safely from a
seated position. If youre driving,
turning your head, rolling
your shoulders and arching your
back at periodic intervals can
help alleviate back pain.
Getting enough activity through
out your day is crucial when
youre living with a chronic pain
condition. Take time to move
and stretch as much as possible
throughout your day, to help
make sitting through your commute
more manageable. If your
work commute is causing significant,
persistent discomfort, be
sure to talk to your doctor and
your employer.