Why Does Driving Hurt My Back So Much?

Over the years several of my clients have asked me this question. Extended driving can aggravate back problems, but what I’ve noticed about driving that hurts my clients the most is not the driving itself. It’s getting in and out of the car that is the problem. 

There are some simple things to keep in mind that can make a huge difference. The number one mistake most people make is just not being mindful and aware of how they’re moving through space and shifting weight. So first and foremost, slow down! 

Secondly, after opening the car door take a moment to turn around as if you were getting ready to sit in a chair or do a squat. Then sit with feet parallel and firmly planted, using the legs. Then lift the legs and keep them together as much as possible, engaging the core. Swing the feet and legs around together. This simple tip can prevent a lot of unnecessary pain in the feet, knees, hips and back because nothing is being mindlessly twisted or flung around. 

The next challenge is to stay mindful and do the same movement in reverse when exiting the vehicle. As much as possible, keep the feet and legs together, engage the core, swing the legs out. Then plant the feet on the ground and brace the hands on the legs if necessary to prepare to stand up. Really feel the feet in contact with the ground and press into the feet to stand up, hinging at the hips. This takes the strain out of the back and prevents unnecessary twisting of the spine, hips, knees and ankles. 

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Be kind to your body, and it will be kind to you!

Here’s a short video to demonstrate: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Guxyk4Hvq/