Tips For Managing Your Neck Pain During Your Commute

If you're chronically dealing with neck pain, your best bet should be to visit a chiropractor to begin a treatment plan. Because it might take a number of adjustments before your chiropractor is able to alleviate the pain, you can help yourself on the path to healing by making choices throughout the day that won't further aggravate your neck. If you spend a considerable amount of time sitting in your car during the commute to work, it's important that this period of time doesn't contribute to your neck pain. Here are some valuable tips to remember when you're behind the wheel.

Don't Slouch Forward

It's easy to slouch into a forward posture when you're driving your car, especially if the commute is dull, you're tired, or your mind is anywhere but on the road in front of you. By the time you reach the office, however, being in this position for a prolonged period of time can leave you with a painful neck. When you slouch, your neck is no longer supported properly, and the muscles and tendons will be working overtime to hold your head up. Make a point of adjusting your seat for comfort and then sitting with your shoulders back and your spine and neck elongated. Ideally, your car's seat will have a headrest that can support your head, too.

Check Blind Spots With Care

Checking your blind spots is a cornerstone to safe driving, whether you're changing lanes or just keeping aware of any hazards around you. You might be in the habit of snapping your head around fast—and it's true that you should check your blind spots quickly—but make sure that this motion doesn't cause you any pain. Turning your head quickly can exacerbate neck pain, so keep your movement steady. If this quick check is painful, try to stay in the right lane rather than switch lanes throughout your commute, as you'll have to check your blind spots less frequently.

Drive Gently

One of the ways to tell that you're driving aggressively is that your head will lurch forward and backward. Your head, on average, can weigh between 10 and 11 pounds—and this means that when it lurches forward when you brake hard, it's putting considerable strain on your neck. Focus on being smooth and steady as you accelerate and decelerate. Ideally, these changes in velocity shouldn't move your head from the seat's headrest.

If you're interested in more information on how to deal with problems like these, check into neck pain services with your local chiropractor.

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