Drivers 'risking spine problems'

Motorists are risking spine problems by not correctly adjusting seats

Slouching at the wheel could be causing drivers long-term spinal damage, a motoring organisation has warned.

The RAC said motorists could be causing themselves spinal problems by failing to correctly adjust their car seats.

It warned that many motorists adopt a "banana" posture - leaning into the wheel and then stretching their legs to reach the pedals.

But driving without proper support for the back can cause increased muscle fatigue and compression on the discs of the spine through vibrations from the road.

Failure to adjust the car seat and head restraint can result in more than a pain in the neck

Edmund King, of the RAC Foundation

Spinal problems

Spinal injuries were found to be common among taxi drivers, salesmen and others who spent long periods behind the wheel.

The RAC Foundation, the campaigning arm of the RAC, said drivers should ensure their car seats are firm and well moulded to suit their body shapes.

They also advise drivers to position their seats so that they don't need to stretch too far and to ensure that their headrests are properly positioned.

Cloth seats they said gave better support for backs than either leather or vinyl covers.

Edmund King, executive director of the RAC Foundation, said he was shocked by how little care drivers took of their spines.

"It is startling that so many motorists do not adjust their seats properly.

"Failure to adjust the car seat and head restraint can result in more than a pain in the neck.

Taking care

"It can lead to long-term back problems and greater likelihood of serious injury if involved in an accident."

The Driving Ergonomics Team, which has studied the problems of posture and driving and includes a chartered physiotherapists and ergonomists, said they had noticed similar problems and urged drivers to use caution.

"It is important to remember that the greater the number of adjustments within a car the greater likelihood of delivering good and comfortable driving postures," said a spokesman.