THE HEALTH ISSUE
No pain, plenty to gain
Why are younger Gen Z drivers more likely to experience pain while driving than any other generation? John Challen finds out
Recent research has indicated that more than half of British drivers (57%) say they suffer from ‘Repetitive Driving Strain’ (RDS) – essentially pain in areas such as their back, neck, shoulders and hips while driving. The numbers suggest that males in the 18-27 age bracket (Gen Z, if you prefer) are most affected, with nearly three-quarters (73%) saying they suffer from it, compared to 64% of women in the same range. What’s more, a higher percentage of this generation is more likely to express the pain as ‘severe’ than others.
Leading physiotherapist Helen O’Leary worked on the study and believes the seating position is to blame. Young drivers – especially male ones – often choose to have a more reclined driving position, further away from the wheel, giving more of a ‘laid-back’ look. This fact might seem like it’s been based on passing observations, but it has actually been proven in a number of safety-related university studies.
Untreated RDS can have a wide range of implications. Overall, 7% of all drivers who suffered from pain say that they had to stop driving for an extended period, 4% had to give up driving entirely and 4% were diagnosed with a condition as a result. But for those Gen Z males, this increases to 17% who were unable to drive for an extended period of time, 7% who had to stop driving entirely and 7% who were diagnosed with a condition.
“Given back pain is something that commonly becomes more prevalent with age, it was a huge surprise to see that young drivers – men in particular – are most likely to experience it,” says O’Leary. “This suggests there are other factors at play. Rather than simply being more susceptible to pain, or more likely to moan about it if they are, the likely culprit is seating position, how long they are sitting for and potentially a lack of exercise.”
“Given back pain is something that commonly becomes more prevalent with age, it was a huge surprise to see that young drivers – men in particular – are most likely to experience it”
Helen O’Leary Leading physiotherapist
Back to basics
O’Leary has helped create a driver-friendly car guide on how drivers can best position themselves when driving – here’s what she suggests:
Seat adjustment
“We’re all different shapes and sizes, so if you drive a shared car, make sure to adjust the seat to your own body. First of all, you need to ensure that the seat is not pressing against the back of your knees – many cars allow you to lengthen or shorten the seat to achieve this. Seat height is also key – you should be sitting upright, similar to in a desk chair. Finally, when thinking about the steering wheel height, you should ensure that your arms are slightly bent. Most modern cars allow you to adjust the seat exactly, so ensure you take time to set it correctly before each drive.”
Lumbar support
“Supporting your spine deserves its own section as it is one of the most important ways to prevent RDS. The easiest way to do this in a car is getting lumbar support, or finding a way to support your lower back – for example through a cushion. Ensuring you have enough support in your lower back will help you sit up straight without overextending.
“Perhaps surprisingly, our bodies can shift throughout the day, so you may need to adjust position on a long drive. Find a car which allows you to move the curve in the seat up and down, and in and out, to account for a larger spinal curve.”
Cruise control
“This feature can be incredibly useful for preventing pain. Having a car with cruise control means that you can take your foot off the gas and therefore not work your foot and ankle muscles constantly. This will help reduce the chances of a sore and tired foot and ankle, particularly those muscles at the front of your shin.”
Take breaks
“This is really important because, no matter how great the car is and how comfortable you feel, you need to give your body a chance to move and lubricate its own parts. It is also worth taking time to stretch in this break, as it can help to prevent any further stiffness”
Staying flexible beyond the car
“As well as taking breaks in between drives, it is important to maintain a good strength and flexibility routine when you’re not driving. Not only will it help you to feel more comfortable while driving, it will aid recovery after long drives.”
Exercises Helen recommends include back extension, reverse nordics, sumo squat, high step up and book openings. “Try these exercises in your spare time, but particularly in the days leading up to a long drive,” she advises. “The first thing to remember is that none of these should cause you pain. If they do, it may be worth seeking in-person physio advice to get something more specific to you.”
