Having Back Problems? Check Your Car Seat!

The position of your car seat while driving can have a big impact on your back, and this can be a problem that a lot of people don’t even think about. One of the first things you should do when you get in your car for the first time (other than putting on your seat belt!) is adjust the driver’s seat.

There are a few other factors that have an effect on your back while driving — such as the vehicle’s vibrations and length of commute — but there’s little you can do about them. So, let’s take a look at what you can change to give your back a break!

Find the right distance and position. When positioning your seat from the pedals, you want your legs at around a 45-degree angle, and your legs should not be fully stretched when reaching the pedals. When reaching for the steering wheel, your arms should be bent at about 20 to 30 degrees, and set your steering wheel’s position somewhere in the center if your vehicle has the option to adjust it.

Find the right seat position. To give your back the most support, sit as far back in the base of the seat as possible. Some vehicles feature a lumbar support, so take advantage of it if your car has this feature! Incline your backrest to about 10 to 15 degrees until it feels natural and comfortable to you. Lastly (but very important) is the headrest adjustment. Not only can it help with posture, but it can also help lower the possibility of an injury during an accident. Leave about one inch between the back of your head and the headrest to allow the muscles in your neck to control the posture of your head and giving better support.

For more help with adjusting your seat, and to see the changing designs of car seats, take a look at this video that I found for this post:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HVoF4QeWo0

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