Back and neck pain from driving: Any recommendations?

LiveOnce

Hello all,

Recently I have been experiencing lots of back and neck pain from long distance driving.

I have tried adjusting the seat and still finding my 'comfort' zone.

Are there any things you recommend trying? Open to changing something in the car or a product that can help while I drive.

I am fairly active and stretch regularly so this mostly happens when I drive. In the next few weeks I anticipate driving 3-4hrs a day for short term basis.

ACG

Could it be the car?
When I passed my test 6 years ago (27) I drove 4 hours in a vauxhall corsa. I got out the car knackered with an aching back.

I do the same drive now in my current car (newer, better seats and higher up) and I am fine.

I was 27, now 33 so hardly over the hill but I definitely notice a difference.

marlot

My physio gave me some exercises. Much along the lines of these..

Arrg - I can't get the link to work. Google arthritis research uk neck pain

Tiexen

Try this, its adjusting for safety but it might help you.

https://youtu.be/pOWPaM2q8iQ

EssexExile

I'm with ACG, get rid of the Vauxhall.

forgotmyname

3 - 4 hours a day = a long drive?

How many hours do you think an HGV driver does a day?

If you cannot get your seat comfy then the next option is change the car.

Puzzled why your getting neck ache though? How have you adjusted your seat?

mobileron

Just had similar problem with neck,physio told me it was a posture problem.
I purchased from ebay a posture brace,it helped a lot with the pain.

knightstyle

Are you like me getting on a bit? I also get neck pain after a long drive and it is an age thing, cervical spondylosis. So have you consulted your doctor about it as it could be more than bad posture?

Notmyfault

Get rid of the Vauxhall!! We have one and when we get out of it after a long journey, no more than four hours, it's like watching a comedy act!! Nether of us can walk for a few minutes. LOL.

missile

Try to relax the muscles and moving your neck regularly as you drive.

Kunoichi73

It might be worth seeing a physio to find out if you have any specific reasons for getting the pain.

You could try a car seat wedge like this: https://www.co-opmobility.co.uk/mobility-aids/car-mobility-aids/car-seat-supports/p/harley-car-seat-wedge?gclid=Cj0KCQiAjO_QBRC4ARIsAD2FsXP5x6OKaxmT7hGwLbyivOTTfI0Tpv2Wbc963byy01EI6eL3wMWR7MgaArY5EALw_wcB I got one of these to help with my back pain issues when driving (I also have one for my chair in work) and they are great (I have a facet joint issue).