How to pick a car that won't cause you back pain.
Picking a car that’s right for YOUR back.
People spend hours researching everything from horsepower to the number of cup holders to get the perfect car. However, despite this careful selection process, many people rarely remember the two most important things.
1 – What is the purpose of the car? I changed my car because it wasn’t big enough for the kids and all the stuff that comes with small children. Front and rear doors are essential, as lifting even a tiny baby in and out will put a massive strain on your back as you lift and twist.
If you want to put heavy stuff in the boot, try to pick a vehicle without a boot lip. The most common problem is lifting heavy shopping bags in and out or gardening stuff such as compost.
If you have something heavy, try to put it on the back seat, preferably on something where you can slide it out.
So push and pull rather than lift.
2 – Sports cars are the stiletto heel of the car world. Think twice about buying one if you have a bad back.
Sports cars look fantastic. However, they are seldom the most practical of vehicles. Getting in and out of a low car can be a nightmare, and the stiff suspension might not be your best friend. There is no point investing in something that your body hates. Legroom can also be an issue. Being squashed up is an absolute no-go for people with hip and knee problems. As a point of interest, leather seats don’t work out well for passengers who suffer from motion sickness. Fabric seats are much better. Also, automatic cars are kinder for motion-sensitive people as it smooths out enthusiastic gear changes.
Things that bad backs like about cars:
Heated Seats are a real plus point in any car as most muscle issues respond well to heat.
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Adjustable seats: I find it helpful to move my seat around during long journeys so that you’re not in any one position for too long.
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A higher driving position, within reason, a higher seat is easier to get in and out of than a lower seat.
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Doors that open wide enough to get in and out of Five-door cars are always better than three-door cars. The bigger the door, the more space you need to open them. My three-door car was a nightmare in small parking spaces.
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Cruise control: Less foot and leg strain if you cover large distances.
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Automatic gears: Less foot and leg strain if you are pottering around town.
The most important thing of all:
If you doubt your choice, why not hire one for the weekend? A quick test drive will not tell you enough, but a long weekend could save you a small fortune.