The vast majority of us drive. We don’t really think too much about our sitting position, posture, tiredness levels etc. This isn’t so much a problem on short journeys but on long ones, these factors can mean the difference between a comfortable and safe journey and a nightmare one.

When you drive long distance, do you do what so many people do? Drive, drive, drive; stopping only for petrol, food or a much needed toilet break? If so, you may inadvertently find yourself driving for several hours. With no breaks, you may get there only 5 – 10 minutes quicker. The fact is, that driving for such long periods without a break is more likely to give you backache or make any current problems worse. Your body can easily seize up if stuck in one position for too long. It can also dull your concentration making you feeling tired and more likely to have an accident. That, clearly, is a serious matter.

So what good driving habits should we adopt?

1. Stop, get out and stretch every 75 – 90 minutes or so. It need only be for 5 minutes walking up and down in a petrol station or in a lay by. By the way, don’t think that stopping at a fast food joint, with a certain small chef outside, gobbling down chips is the same thing. It isn’t and, unlike a short walk, will not refresh you. All those carbs and fast food will just make you want to have a little sleep. Anyway, that’s a whole other subject.
2. Do a few stretches before you get back into the car, pulling your knee up to your chest for example – but do follow your chiropractor’s advice!
3. Vary the rake angle of the seat every so often. Most car seats now have an adjustable angle to the backrest. Just give the button or dial a slight tweak but don’t move it too much. There is a range within which you will be ergonomically comfortable. Just vary the position a little within that range. This stops the muscles setting in one position and helps you to feel less stiff and achy at the end of your journey. Do make sure, however, that you can still see in your mirrors.
4. Ensure that your rear view mirror is set for you sitting upright, not slid down, in your seat. Also pay close attention to whether you’re sitting straight upright in your seat or leaning to the left or to the right. People often lean slightly left, into the middle of the car, especially in small cars (like the ‘KA’). I have my own theory on the reason why! Anyway, just watch them in traffic queues and see if you don’t agree! (Let me know).
5. Stay well hydrated. Have a bottle of water with you in the car. This will help you stay alert and refreshed. Note:- water NOT coke – you want hydration, not sugar highs and lows!
6. If you feel tired, stop somewhere safe and have forty winks. You’d rather get there safe than not at all, right? Set the alarm on your mobile if you have to.

These habits may not be ground breaking but so many of us ignore them. On your next long journey, discipline yourself to do them. You should arrive at your destination in one piece, feeling perkier and more refreshed.

Yours in health,

Dr Neil