Many people avoid sitting in the car for too long because they fear that they will assume uncomfortable positions and feel pain. Knowing the right way to sit in the car will save you a bad back pain and make you experience each car trip differently. You no longer have to worry about sitting in the car for a long time, whether it's for a business trip, a vacation or a family outing.
Steps
Step 1. Don't assume a slouching posture when in a car
If you do, after a while you will feel pain. This type of posture is extremely tiring for the back when held for a long time.
Step 2. When you sit in the car, give priority to the hips
The first part of your body to enter the car must be your pelvis, then everything else. The weight of the body must be concentrated on the thighs, not on the sacrum.
Step 3. Use a small blanket, t-shirt, or some other type of soft fabric to create support for your back
Place the support on top of your spine. It all depends on how you choose to sit, and what material you choose to use, so you'll need to experiment before you find the most comfortable position. It is important to place it at the height of the medium ribs so that it is truly effective.
If you don't feel comfortable with the materials we suggested, try a thinner fabric, for example two pillow covers (plain and without embroidery) and place them behind your back. Look for the best solution to create support that will help you relax and get into a more natural position. If you feel a relaxing sensation on your neck, shoulders and back, it means that you have found the right solution for you. Relax your legs and you are ready to go
Step 4. Stand straight on your back
Place the support you have chosen around you, in a horseshoe shape. Now that you have something to support you, find the position that is most comfortable for you and keep it.
Step 5. If necessary, drag the seat further forward, or, if you are tall, drag it backwards
Finding the correct distance is very important for maintaining correct posture. Let your chosen support support you, don't let your legs do it.
- The lower part of your spine must be in contact with the seat. If you are the driver, assume the correct position first, then choose the right seat distance, which allows you to comfortably access the pedals.
- Keep your back pressed towards the seat. Choose the seat angle where your elbows will be slightly bent to turn the steering wheel.
- The seat should be as high as possible to maintain a natural leg position. Check that you can easily look in the rear view mirrors and make sure you have convenient access to all driving tools. If you are particularly tall, finding the right position will be more difficult, to feel more comfortable adjust the steering angle.
- If your car seat cushions can be positioned to your liking, find the right position to relieve leg fatigue as you push the pedals. If you can move the cushion, you will probably also have to change the angle of the backrest. If you have an adjustable seat try to keep a distance of about two to three fingers between the back of your knee and the seat.
Step 6. If your car is equipped with an adjustable lumbar support, adjust it the way you feel most comfortable
It is positioned correctly when it is able to support the base of your spine in a natural position.
Step 7. Adjust the headrest in the best way
Some people do not find headrests comfortable at all, but if you learn how to use them well, you will realize how much they can relieve the weight that falls on the neck and shoulders, guaranteeing greater relaxation. At first you may feel uncomfortable, especially if you are usually not used to keeping your head further back. Try it and you will see that you will be able to feel relief.
The upper part of the headrest must be located at least at eye level, if possible, try to raise it more. A gap of about 2 cm should form between your head and its tip. It is not only about comfort but also about safety, in fact, in the event of an accident, the headrest can protect you from whiplash
Step 8. Be patient
Correcting bad habits may take some time. The sooner you find a more comfortable position the sooner you can enjoy the benefits. Try never to assume a sagging posture again.
Advice
- Not all solutions are suitable for all subjects. Some people place a support in the middle of the back, others fold the fabric to form a kind of pillow. Try folding the smooth liners until you get more consistent support, it's just one of many options. Remember to keep your shoulders high and your back straight, keep your posture and relax.
- If your car has adjustable side pads, try to adjust them to soothe your upper body. If you feel pressure, adjust their position once more so they don't bother you.
