Commuters who don’t adjust their car seat and steering wheel to suit their individual needs are putting their health at risk, physiotherapists are warning.

Latest census figures for England and Wales reveal that almost two-thirds of workers (15.3 million) commute by car and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) says poor driving posture is a key factor that can lead to musculoskeletal problems such as back and neck pain.

Left untreated, minor discomfort can lead to a more serious problem that causes an absence from work.

To combat this problem, the CSP has produced ‘Drive Free of Pain’ – a step-by-step guide, it includes advice for drivers on ensuring they have the correct car set-up, ways to improve posture, plus some simple stretches for when drivers take a break from the wheel.  

Chartered Physiotherapist Joshua Catlett, said: “Both people and cars come in different shapes and sizes and no one size fits all.

“Most people understand the importance of ensuring that their office workstation is individually suited to them but the car is often overlooked.

“It is so important to be aware of your posture when driving.  Persistent poor sitting posture can contribute to musculoskeletal pain and discomfort."

To download the report, view the CSP website.