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Health & Fitness

Road Trip

Driving posture is key with any long car ride.

"When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money.  Then take half the clothes and twice the money."  ~Susan Heller

Summer vacations for many families means loading up the SUV with beach gear and suitcases, and heading for the shore.  This usually means many hours spent behind the wheel (extra hours if you include summer traffic in NJ!)

It is important that we are all aware of how we sit in the car to avoid muscle cramps, back or neck aches and stiff joints.

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When sitting in any other chair, positioning is first. The seat back should be slightly reclined (10-15 degrees) and the seat should be tilted forward so that your knees are below the height of your hips.

Make sure you sit all the way back in the seat so that your lower back is properly supported. Most cars have an adjustable lumbar support; learn how to adjust this setting in your car, it can make a HUGE difference for long car rides.

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The seat should be far enough away from the pedals so that your knees have a comfortable bend and so that you can safely reach the gas and break.  Your elbows should have a slight bend when hold the steering wheel.

After all of these adjustments are made, double check your mirrors so that you can see out of all of them correctly with your new positioning. Keep your head and neck relaxed on the headrest.

Don't forget your GPS, music, snacks and entertainment for the kids! Happy Travels!

Please contact MSI Physical Therapy with any questions or to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist. (973)-635-2800 or (908)-245-5566

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