As more and more of us are working in offices located in city centres or sprawling industrial estates it is inevitable that we are going to face longer journeys to work. This is either because we’re travelling further in distance to reach work or because we’re meeting plenty of other commuters be it in traffic, on the train, bus or tube.
As busy London chiropractors we know all too well the dangers of long commutes pose to the health of your neck, back and shoulders.
A long commute is boring, painful and not good for your back. Unfortunately for most of us it is a fact of life we must get on with. With this in mind we as leading London chiropractors have some advice for you to avoid back pain.
How keep your back safe during your commute shares leading London Chiropractor
On the tube, train or bus;
- Avoid carrying a satchel and opt for a rucksack instead and also avoid making it too heavy.
- Don’t get stressed and relax
- Get up and walk around if you can to loosen up.
- Don’t sit down the entire journey
Whilst driving;
- The seat – The back of the seat should be set slightly backwards so that it feels natural. If you get this right your elbows should also be relaxed.
- Steering wheel – If your seat has been adjusted correctly your hands should fall nicely on the steering wheel, with only a slight bend in your arms.
- Mirrors – As you should remember from your test, you need to be able to see all of your mirrors from your driving position without having to move your head too much. Make sure you allow this to happen.
- Seatbelts – It must never rest on your neck or fall on to the top of your arm. It must always lie across the top of your shoulder.
- Footwear and relaxing – Always check your footwear is appropriate for any activity you take part in. Avoid heels and clunky boots to allow you to drive safely.
Alternative measures
For most of us we do have to go to a place to work, we haven’t got the option to work in any other way but a lot of us do.
- One of the best ways to avoid back pain from your commute is by not commuting at all.
- Working from home can not only save you money on transport but it can also save you from the commute altogether. Try it out.
- If you still have to go out and about then try avoiding travel at peak times. It will save you time, money and stress. Even better try walking, running or cycling to work