Going on long road trip can be tiring and tough on your back, which is why it’s important to take regular breaks and do some of the stretches recommended by your Chiropractor.
At the same time, be conscious of how you and your passengers are sitting while travelling. The driver’s seat should be flat so that their hips are at the same level as their knees. Your knees should be slightly bent but your feet should be able to reach the pedals easily.
The driver should also be seated high enough so that they can easily see over the steering wheel and see all mirrors and over the dashboard without leaning forward. Your neck should be upright with the centre of the back of your head touching the centre of the headrest.
Never Slouch In Your Seat
Your passengers should NEVER slouch in their seat, or put their feet up on the dashboard or the back of the seats. This position places a terrible strain on your sacrum, low back, upper back, and neck.
Even worse, in the event of an accident, the speed at which an airbag deploys is approximately 200 km/h, a speed which in accident simulations has knocked the legs off crash-test dummies.
So, sit tall, keep your feet firmly on the ground and enjoy the journey!
If you have any questions about the health or alignment of your spine or that of your loved ones, Dr. Erin McLaughlin and Dr. Pierre Paradis are here to help. If you live or work in Kanata and the surrounding area, contact us today or give us a call at (613) 831-9665.