Not every vehicle offers the comfort and support that comes with a used Kia Optima. This popular sedan has an available 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat that offers plenty of lumbar support. If you own a used Kia Optima, you may already love the amount of relief this car provides. If you’re looking for a dependable vehicle with an attractive price tag, you can’t go wrong with a used Kia Optima.

Whether you already have a bad back or want to get ahead of the pain that may come on your next road trip, here are some tips to help you avoid back issues on the road.

Focus on Comfort

It’s worth a few extra minutes to ensure that you’re comfortable before starting a long road trip. Even the smallest thing can turn into a significant issue down the line.

• Sit up straight. Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips.
• Empty your back pockets. Sitting on a wallet, money clip, phone, or anything else can take your spine out of the proper alignment.
• Keep at a comfortable distance from the steering wheel. The NHTSA recommends keeping your breastbone around ten inches from the steering wheel.
• Align your back against the back of the seat. If your driver’s seat doesn’t offer lumbar support, you can use a specialized pillow.

Go For A Smooth Ride

Bumps, bounces, and shakes on the road can jar your spine and add unwanted pain to your trip. While you can’t always control the condition of the roads or the shape of terrain you have to cross, there are some things you can do to keep the ride as smooth as possible.

• Drive a sedan, like a used Kia Optima, instead of an SUV or pickup truck. Cars typically decrease bumps along the way.
• Keep your shocks in good shape. This will help reduce bouncing.
• Replace worn tires. This helps reduce shaking and vibrations.
• Sit on a specialized pillow or seat cover that helps absorb bumps.

Take a Break Once In A While

It’s tempting to try and push through those long drives, but making good time isn’t worth the potential back pain you’ll endure when you arrive. It’s recommended that you take a 15-minute break every two hours on the road. Those who suffer more back pain might consider stopping every 30 to 60 minutes. Get out, walk around, and stretch.

If you’re not able to stop and take a break, shift your position. Even a little bit of movement here and there is better than staying still. Pump your ankles, adjust your seat a little, stretch your hamstrings, etc.

Sometimes taking a break just means finding something to take your mind off of your back pain. Switch up the radio station, try a new podcast, play a driving game with your passengers, etc. If you’re not driving, you can safely try things like reading a book or playing a game on your phone.

Be Safe

If you are especially prone to back pain, take all of the necessary steps to ensure that the pain won’t impact your ability to drive. If you’re at risk, have someone else drive for you. You can also consult with your doctor on medication, stretches, exercises, and other tips to ensure your next road trip isn’t a pain in the back.