By Jeff Sheppard 02 Aug 2022 no comment 453 Views
Are you a driver?
When we think about sedentary lifestyles, most of us imagine two scenarios. Firstly, there are workers with jobs that require them to sit for most of the day, such as office work. Secondly, there are people whose preferred leisure activities involve sitting down: pasttimes such as watching TV, reading, playing video games, drawing, or surfing the Internet.
Many of us forget a third category: drivers.
Driving is a sedentary activity
Whether you drive for a living, commute for your job, or enjoy road trips, driving often involves hours spent seated behind the wheel of your car. And just like sitting at your desk at work, or on your couch at home, all that sitting can take a toll on your musculo-skeletal system.
Fortunately there are things you can do to minimize or prevent stresses and strains from the time you spend behind the wheel.
Ergnometrics aren’t just for office workers
When you sit behind the wheel, your thighs should rest comfortably on the seat while your feet are on the pedals. Sitting too far away from the pedals can strain your back as your legs reach for the pedals and your arms stretch forward to take the wheel.
Keep your knees slightly bent, and level with or slightly higher than your hips.
Your seat should be in an upright or slightly reclined position. You might want to use a back support. Position your seat with the widest part of the support between the bottom of your rib cage and your waistline.
Adjust the headrest so that it sits directly behind your head. Position it no more than 2 inches from the back of your head.
If you’re a driver, chiropractic care is important
Regular chiropractic care can help your body cope with the stresses and strains caused by prolonged sitting. Whether you are a driver, a person who sits at work, or someone who enjoys some sedentary hobbies, you can benefit from having a chiropractor.
If you start to feel any discomfort while driving, call Sheppard Chiropractic Centre. If you have a maintenance appointment scheduled, but it is a ways in the future, don’t wait with the pain. Come in sooner if you can.
If you don’t already have a regular chiropractor, we are accepting new patients. We would be honoured to help you and your family stay healthy. You can reach Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at 635-8182 or 847-7172 to make an appointment.