Re: Howabout driving...

In Reply to: Howabout driving... posted by ChinaCat on January 25, 2004 at 10:40:40:

In The Carpal Tunnel Help Book Dr. Scott M. Fried
offers this advice (page 60):

While driving, hold the steering wheel low, rather than at the middle or top, in order to minimize stress on the nerves in your arms (see figure 6.3). Hold it securely, but try to relax the arms and hands. During long trips, you may want to rest your forearm on a pillow for support.

Make sure your car seat offers good low back support to allow correct sitting posture. Keeping the low back or lumbar spine in proper posture translates up the rest of your spine to help keep your body properly aligned. Automobiles vary tremendously with respect to seating comfort, so when shopping for a car, you should carefully evaluate how your body fits the seat. Remember also that the use of a standard shifter requires a good deal of regular reaching and use of the left leg.

Driving can lead to neck and brachial plexus pain from prolonged posturing of the neck and shoulders, as well as the constant need to turn and stretch the neck from side to side. Try to use mirrors to help minimize strain.

On extended trips, take turns with other drivers and stop frequently to rest your eyes and to do stretches and nerve slides. I generally recommend stopping every thirty to sixty minutes, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Break up long trips by stopping at rest stops, or a hotel overnight, rather than overstraining from fatigue and prolonged stress.

Whenever staying away from home, consider bringing your own pillows.

: You're all very awesome to be so willing to share your ideas. So howabout protecting your hands from strain while driving? I only drive a half hour to work but, I guess something about having to hold my arms out in front of me and grip a steering wheel = instant NUMB! Anyone run into any clever ideas that help?
: Luckily I've been able to maintain some grip strength so I'm not a hazard, but I'm sure you're all thinking you're glad you don't drive my highways.
: XOX CCat