Long car journeys can be physically demanding. Many drivers experience stiffness, fatigue or back pain after long journeys – often due to a static and incorrect sitting position. The lower back, neck and shoulders are particularly vulnerable when the body is held in the same position for a long time.
With the right ergonomic adjustments and aids, such as an ergonomic back cushion or lumbar support for the car, you can reduce the strain and make the journey both more comfortable and gentler on the body.
Common problems when driving long distances
Prolonged sitting can cause several types of problems:
- Lower back pain – lack of lumbar support causes the back to lose its natural curve.
- Neck and shoulder tension – incorrectly positioned headrest and a forward-leaning posture increase the strain.
- Leg fatigue – poor blood circulation can cause numbness.
- Poor posture – an incorrectly adjusted seat often leads to a slumped sitting position.
By adjusting your sitting position and using the right support, you can drive longer without pain.
How to improve ergonomics in your car
Adjust the car seat correctly
- Sit with your entire back against the backrest
- Your knees should be slightly bent when pedalling.
- Recline the seat 100–110 degrees to reduce strain
- Adjust the height so you have good visibility without bending your neck
Give your lower back the right support
Many car seats lack sufficient lumbar support. An ergonomic lumbar support pillow for the car helps you to:
- Maintain natural waistline
- Prevent you from sliding forward in the chair
- Maintain a relaxed and comfortable position
Position the headrest correctly
- The headrest should be at the same height as the back of the head.
- The distance to the head should be no mora than 5 cm
- If necessary, you can supplement with an ergonomic neck pillow.
Take regular breaks during long drives
Even with proper sitting posture, the body needs movement. Experts recommend taking breaks at least every two hours:
- Get out of the car and go for a short walk.
- Do simple stretching exercises for your neck, shoulders and lower back.
- Breaks both reduce stiffness and improve concentration.
Ergonomic back cushions and supports for the car
To further reduce strain and increase comfort, you can use various ergonomic car pillows:
- Lumbar cushion for people under 180 cm and over 180 cm - prevents fatigue and stiffness in the lower back when driving.
- Back cushion with memory foam – shapes to your back for optimal pressure relief.
- Chestrest – provides support for the thoracic spine and optimises the position of the headrest.
- Mini roller – flexible and portable, can be used in the car, at the office or when travelling.
With small adjustments and the right support, you can drive longer distances without pain – and enjoy a more ergonomic and safe car journey.
At Rehaboteket, you will find a wide range of ergonomic back cushions and lumbar supports for cars. Do you need help choosing? Our physiotherapist, Ida, provides personal advice to find the right support for your needs.
About the content – expertly reviewed by a physiotherapist
Our goal is to provide clear, practical and reliable information about health, exercise and orthopedic aids. All our blog posts are based on proven knowledge and are reviewed by our licensed physiotherapist, Ida, to ensure that the advice is safe, up-to-date and relevant.
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