Most drivers have experienced lower back and knee pain from driving for long periods at some point. It’s caused by the muscles stiffening up from lack of use. Driving can be a tension-filled activity. Driving in heavy traffic or on unfamiliar roads can make your entire body tense and rigid. This tension can be painful on muscles and joints when maintained for an extended period. These parts of the body rely on blood circulation from movement to remain limber. Movement also increases the flow of synovial fluid. This fluid cushions the bones in the joints and helps them move smoothly.
Knee pain while driving can occur from the ongoing process of holding down the accelerator pedal. Lower back pain from driving can occur when the driver unconsciously bends forward to pay attention to the traffic.
While you always want to remain alert while driving, discomfort can distract your attention from the road ahead. You want to ensure that you’re comfortable as well as alert, particularly when driving long distances. Getting too comfortable while driving long distances can also make you dangerously drowsy. Here are six methods to help you stay alert but comfortable on your next long road trip.
Moving your seat back and forth can often reveal a position where your knee pain completely disappears. Adjusting your steering wheel can also ease pain in your shoulders and lower back. Just be sure to make these adjustments before you start driving.
Although driving is a seated activity, wearing uncomfortable shoes can be painful and distracting on long drives. A high-heeled shoe pressing on the accelerator pedal can also cause knee pain while driving.
Large medicated patches are available over the counter. These patches can be applied to your lower back before a lengthy road trip and can help minimize any back pain. Be sure to follow the instructions about the length of use.
Maintaining the correct posture is crucial for minimizing lower back pain while driving. If you find yourself habitually slumping over the wheel or slouching while driving, a lumbar support may provide the support you need. These are simply small cushions used between the lower back and the seat rest that help you maintain the proper erect posture.
Cruise control was a revelation when it was first introduced back in the 70s. People can now take their foot off the accelerator during a long drive. You should know how to use it before taking a long road trip. It can help reduce or eliminate knee pain.
One of the simplest ways to alleviate back and knee pain is to provide them with frequent movement. Stopping frequently to stretch your legs and walk around keeps them from stiffening up and causing pain. Learning some simple stretching exercises can also work wonders. Five or ten minutes of walking or stretching may be all you need to keep your knees and lower back pain-free on the road.
The mountains and hills around Chiang Mai are famous for the long, winding and scenic drives they offer. Exploring the forests, fields and villages of the hill areas by car can be a pleasant day’s excursion for many people.
If your road trip ends back in Chiang Mai, you’re in luck. We have three Let’s Relax Spa locations in Chiang Mai for you to choose from.
A Thai massage at a Chiang Mai spa is perfect for loosening up aching and sore muscles, tendons, and joints after hours of driving. Our Chiang Mai branches also offer our full menu of massages and spa treatments to relax and rejuvenate you. Choose our most convenient branch and book a relaxing traditional Thai massage at a Let’s Relax Spa after a long road trip.
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