With summer temperatures already on the rise, Kuwait residents are likely to spend more time behind the wheel, preferring the air-conditioned comfort of their cars to walking. However, long driving times subject the back and neck to unnecessary and repetitive strain, warns an orthopedic specialist.
It’s commonly known that traffic jams caused by the growing number of people driving at the heart of the city during peak hours result in time loss and road rage, but according to Dr Karim Attara, Orthopedic Surgeon at Al Zahra Hospital in the Gulf region, they also cause a host of spinal problems that affect the back and neck.
During traffic jams, drivers are commonly seen slumping in their seats and stretching their feet to reach the pedals, which places their lower back under a lot of strain. Furthermore, drivers cannot depend on anchorage support from feet, which are usually fixed at an angle on the pedals.
Dr Attara explains: “Passengers and drivers alike suffer from undue stress during long drives mostly due to poor posture. In addition to this, their bodies are exposed to sudden stops and turns resulting from change in speed, which sway the body from its natural position. Strong vibrations caused by driving fast on unpaved roads or not slowing down sufficiently when approaching speed bumps can also shock the body and cause it harm. “
Various surveys have shown a correlation between high mileage drivers and the incidence of lower back pain. One UK survey concluded that those driving for more than four hours a day are six times more likely to take time off work for back trouble than those who drive for less than two hours. Based on these findings, high mileage drivers in Kuwait, especially sales people on the move and public transport drivers, need to take action to avoid these risks.
Dr Attara continues: “Most people are not aware of the strain that repeated and extended driving time puts on the body and hence take no measures to prevent it. Although there is no optimum seating position to suit everyone due to differences in height and weight, simple guidelines can be followed to ensure you are in the position that is best for you.”
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
