Need recommendations to help with back pain while driving

[Ike0069]

I recently started a new job that requires me drive much, much more that I did in the past. It's a sales job and I drive about 1.5 - 2 hrs/day normally, but sometimes closer to 4 hrs.

I do have lower back pain that is aggravated immensly by extended periods of sitting. In the past I had been driving <10 minutes each way to work, so this was not an issue. Also, I now drive a company paid for vehicle that is an 07 Impala. This vehicle has the absolute worse seats I've ever sat it. After 15-20 minutes, my back starts hurting. Talking to others that drive this same vehicle (this is the vehicle of company choice right now for most employees in my area), they pretty all complain about the seats.

So, since I am stuck with this vehicle for the next two years, what can I do or buy to help keep my back comfortable while driving. I've seen many pillows and pads that claim to help relieve back pain while driving, but I'd like to read some actual user recommendations. Thanks.

 

[combine]

Vicoden and beer.....lol jk.

 

[effowe]

I would try some OTC stuff first, tylenol, advil, whatever to see if that works. If it doesn't, see a doctor and see if you can get a prescription for something stronger, but that wouldn't impede your driving.

 

[MedicBob]

Heated seat covers. Have Heated seats on my VW and Volvo. Won't get another car without them. I use them even in the summer if my bad is giving me problems as it is prone to do considering my job.

 

[George P Burdell]

Start out with a foam cushion about 2" deep and ~2 feet high.

If that doesn't help much, try a small cushion (about half the size of a pillow). A cushion of that size can typically support half your back, but by trial and error, you can find the right spot to place the cushion.

 

[Ike0069]

Where's a good place to buy something. Local Walmart/Target, or do I need something from a specialty store.

 

[Pepsi90919]

i bought a new-ish grand prix with the seats not broken in yet. it takes a few months. hang in there.

 

[fuzzybabybunny]

Get a lumbar pillow. Basically a small pillow or a rolled up coat that's at the corner of the seat and the back cushion. It helps keep your back straighter. I've driven 20+ hours at once and this worked wonders.

 

[DAGTA]

Lumbar pillow + see a good chiropractor (ask around to find a good one)

 

[FoBoT]

get one of those beads seat covers like the old people use

http://www.accessconnect.com/prodpage17.htm

Wood Bead Seat Covers

Hundreds of natural wood beads create massaging action. Allows air to circulate for greater comfort. Use in your car, truck, van, motorhome. Price is for one seat cover.
SKU#250900 $9.95 each

 

[thomsbrain]

yeah, you need a little lumbar support pillow.

 

[JMWarren]

Swap your seats for Deville or Seville seats that have full lumbar support, 10 segment air bags for variable firmness, AC/Heat and Massage....

All the controls can be mounted on the side of the seat and modules are fully contained under the seat, you'd only need to tap 12v from somewhere (easy if you have power seats). Shouldn't be hard to fab a bracket to use the existing mounting points. Just reinstall your old seat when you return it...