Driving has several ergonomic risks such as poor circulation, whole body vibrations, improper seat settings, forward head/neck posture, prolonged sitting. It is important to follow the tips below for proper positions and stretching techniques to prevent some of these risk factors.
Proper Driving Positions
- Legs should be slightly less than perpendicular to the floor
- Feet should be flat on the floor
- Back should be in a neutral position and tailbone should meet the crease of the seat
- Should not have rounded shoulders or forward head
- Raise seat where knees are positioned slightly lower than your hips and eyes are 3 inches above steering wheel
- Do not sit too close to the wheel as this position can predispose for severe injuries during collisions
- Mindful of how tight grip is on steering wheel
- Elbows should be bent slightly while being kept towards the body (no chicken wings)
- Set the top of the headrest between the top of your ears and the top of your head to help prevent whiplash
- Angle of your seat back should be set at 100-110 degrees for the least amount of back pressure
