Driving can be a pain in the back

It doesn’t matter how often or how little you use your pride and joy – it could be doing you damage.

Tim Hutchful from the BCA says;

“There is almost twice as much pressure on your back when you are sitting incorrectly than there is if you stand up. Those most at risk are the people who not only spend long periods of time in the car, but also those who make infrequent short journeys in the car – because it can be compared to an unaccustomed form of exercise.”

The RAC(Royal Automobile Club) statistics show how important the humble motor car has become – with a staggering 89% of British motorists admitting they would find it difficult to adjust their lifestyle to being without a car.

The BCA has identified the three groups most at risk:

School Run Mums

According to the BCA, typical characteristics of these drivers include:

• Turning round and twisting to deal with children in the back – twisting to such a degree whilst sitting down is potentially damaging because your spine twists but your pelvis and legs are anchored.
• Having to reach into the car to lift children and school bags – the further away the weight is, the more the strain on your back.

Reps on the road

The BCA states that these drivers are at risk because of:

• Their attire – suits can restrict movement, and shiny soled shoes could slip off pedals, whilst high heels cause you to over extend your ankle.
• The amount of time spent in the car – not just driving but also using laptops whilst stationary. Rotating in your seat to use your laptop, or to complete paperwork, will put pressure on your spine.
• Lifting samples and equipment in and out of the car – bending from the waist increases stress on your lower back.

Taxi/Commercial Drivers

These drivers are most at risk, says the BCA, because of:

• Sitting still in a vehicle for long periods of time; as it reduces the blood flow to the muscles and joints, increasing incidence of pain and fatigue.
• Vans boast a great deal of space in the back, but drivers space is limited and inflexible.
• Suffering stress due to time pressures for delivery drivers and passenger pressures for taxi drivers!
• Lifting and handling heavy items.

The BCA has the following advice for all drivers:

• Relax – a relaxed driving position reduces stress on the spine, allow your seat to take your weight.
• Make adjustments – if you share a car, make sure you adjust the seat position to suit you when you get in. Make sure the seat is slightly backwards so that it feels natural and that your elbows are at a comfortable and relaxed angle.
• Take regular breaks – the BCA advises that you should stop and stretch your legs (and arms!) at least every two hours.
• Clench your cheeks – if you are stuck in traffic exercise in your seat. Try buttock clenches, side bends and shoulder shrugs and circles.
• Unload – walk around the vehicle before unloading rather than stretching behind you.
• Leave the tight clothes at home – as they will restrict your movement.
• It’s all in the timing – allow plenty of time for journeys to avoid stress.
• Pain is a warning sign, do not ignore it – go and see your local BCA chiropractor.