The most common complaints reported by drivers include stiff neck, back and foot cramps. Fortunately, there are a number of ergonomic adjustments you can make in your vehicle to reduce stress and strain on your body.
Consider these modifications and adjustments before going out for your next drive:
Back tilt: Make sure to sit all the way back in your seat for full support. The back of your seat should be adjusted so it is slightly reclined beyond 90 degrees.
Seat pan: The angle of your seat pan should be set so your knees are at or slightly below the level of the hips. This will decrease pressure on the lower back. The knees should be slightly bent in order to comfortably operate the accelerator and break.
Lumbar support: The lumbar support should be adjusted to bring the spine into its normal S shape position. If your vehicle does not offer adequate lumbar support, you can use a portable device such as a towel roll or lumbar support roll.
Headrest: The middle of your head should be level with the middle of the headrest. Keep your chin slightly tucked to maintain a neutral cervical posture.
Mirror: Before setting the mirror, make sure your sitting in correct neutral posture with a long spine. This will help you maintain a good position.
Steering Wheel: Align the steering wheel so that it sits 10-12 inches from the chest. Keep both hands on the wheel at the 9 and 3 position with shoulders relaxed and pulled back. Holding the hands too high on the steering wheel can result in shoulder tension and tightness. Make sure you have a clear view of the driver’s display panel as well as clearance of the thighs and knees.
Prolonged periods of sitting can place high demands on the body particularly when sitting in a vehicle due to added movements and vibrations. Make sure you take breaks at least every 2 hours to allow for stretching of the muscles and blood to circulate.
