Don't Sit Up Straight
Many of us commute several hours a day to and from work or frequently drive long distances for business trips. Sitting behind the wheel with bad posture can reek havoc on your back. Sitting incorrectly can put twice as much pressure on your back as standing. Here are some tips on how to maintain proper positioning while driving.
First of all, the optimal thigh/back angle is 135 degrees, i.e., you should lean back 45 degrees despite your mother's incessant nag to sit up straight. A 90 degree position causes significantly more strain to the spine than a 135 degree position.
Relax while behind the wheel. Relaxing reduces stress on spine.
Take 15 minute breaks from driving at least every two hours, and then get out of the car and move around.
Adjust your seat to maximize support. Make sure your thighs are supported along the length of the seat cushion while avoiding pressure behind the knee. Adjust the back so that it continuously supports your back up to the shoulder, and then tilt it back 30 to 45 degrees.
Make sure to have proper lumbar support. Buy pillows if your seat doesn't have built in lumbar support. Adjust the lumbar support such that pressure along the length of your back is even with no pressure points or gaps.
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