How Commuting is Damaging Your Back and What You Can Do About It
Lacey If you’re like most people in the San Francisco Bay Area, you probably spend a good chunk of your day commuting. Whether you’re driving, taking public transportation, or even walking or biking, all that time spent getting from point A to point B can take a toll on your body—and your back in particular. Here’s a closer look at how commuting can damage your back and what you can do to prevent or alleviate pain
How Commuting Hurts Your Back
There are a few different ways in which commuting can damage your back. First of all, if you’re sitting for long periods of time, whether that’s in a car or on a bus or train, that can lead to poor posture and muscular imbalances. Additionally, if you’re constantly carrying a heavy backpack (or purse) filled with everything you need for the day, that extra weight can strain your back muscles and cause pain. And finally, if you walk or bike to commute, chances are you’re not using the proper form, which can also lead to pain.
What You Can Do About It
Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent or alleviate back pain caused by commuting. If you drive to work, make sure you have a good ergonomic setup in your car so you’re not sitting in an awkward position for long periods of time. Most newer vehicles have lumbar support so make sure to use it. If you take public transportation, try to stand up and move around as much as possible to keep your muscles from getting too stiff. And if you walk or bike to commute, pay attention to your form and focus on keeping your spine in alignment.
Bay Area Workers Can’t Avoid Commuting
Commuting is a necessary evil for many of us who live in the Bay Area and still work in the office. Since Covid, many companies established “Work From Home” a permeate offering but not all companies have adapted. Meaning many of us are back on the road commuting to work once again. By being aware of the ways in which commuting can damage our backs and taking steps to prevent or alleviate pain, we can make the most of our time on the road—and protect our bodies in the process.