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Orthopaedic Problems & Their Effect on Car Driving

Car Driving has become an essential activity that helps us pursue our personal , professional and social activities.  There are many Orthopaedics related ailments that can affect our ability to drive. So this note tries to describe some conditions and also the modifications & measures required to overcome them.

Car Driving and Orthopaedic Problems:

Introduction

Driving is a common activity for many people, but it can be challenging for those with orthopaedic problems. The repetitive motions involved in driving, such as turning the steering wheel, pressing the pedals, and shifting gears, can put stress on joints and muscles. Additionally, the vibrations from the road can aggravate pain and discomfort.

Prevalence

According to a study published in the journal Spine, approximately 50% of people with orthopaedic problems experience pain or discomfort while driving. The study also found that people with orthopaedic problems are more likely to have car accidents.

Challenges

The specific challenges that people with orthopaedic problems face while driving vary depending on the nature of the problem. For example, people with arthritis may have difficulty gripping the steering wheel or pressing the pedals. People with back pain may have difficulty sitting in the car for long periods of time. People with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience numbness and tingling in their hands, which can make it difficult to steer and operate the controls.

Risk Factors

A number of factors can increase the risk of accidents for people with orthopaedic problems, including:

* Pain and discomfort
* Reduced range of motion
* Impaired reaction time
* Difficulty seeing and hearing
* Fatigue from pain medication

Safety Tips

If you have an orthopaedic problem, there are a number of things you can do to drive safely, including:

Adjust your seat and steering wheel: Make sure that you are in a comfortable position with your arms and legs slightly bent. Your feet should be able to reach the pedals comfortably without having to stretch.
Use adaptive driving devices: There are a variety of adaptive driving devices available that can help you drive more safely. For example, hand controls can be used to operate the pedals if you have difficulty using your legs. Pedal extensions can be used to bring the pedals closer to you if you have short legs.
Take breaks: If you have a long drive ahead of you, take breaks every two to three hours to stretch and move around. This will help to reduce pain and stiffness.
Avoid driving long distances: If possible, avoid driving long distances, especially if you have severe pain or discomfort. If you must drive long distances, take breaks more often.
Be aware of your limitations: Avoid driving when you are tired or in pain. If you are unsure whether it is safe for you to drive, talk to your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon.

Specific Advice for Common Orthopaedic Problems

Here is some specific advice for driving safely with common orthopaedic problems:

Arthritis: Use a steering wheel grip and pedal extensions to reduce stress on your joints. Take breaks to stretch and move your hands and feet.
Back pain: Adjust your seat so that your back is supported. Use a lumbar cushion if needed. Take breaks to stretch your back and legs.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Avoid gripping the steering wheel too tightly. Take breaks to stretch and shake your hands.
Hip pain: Adjust your seat so that your hips are bent at a comfortable angle. Use a hip pad if needed. Take breaks to stretch and move your hips.
Knee pain: Adjust your seat so that your knees are bent at a comfortable angle. Use a knee pillow if needed. Take breaks to stretch and move your knees.
Neck pain: Adjust your seat and headrest so that your neck is in a neutral position. Use a neck pillow if needed. Take breaks to stretch and move your neck.
Shoulder pain: Adjust your seat so that your shoulders are relaxed. Use a steering wheel grip and pedal extensions to reduce stress on your shoulders. Take breaks to stretch and move your shoulders.

When to Stop Driving

There are some cases where it is not safe to drive with an orthopaedic problem. For example, you should not drive if you:

* Have a cast or brace that restricts your range of motion.
* Are taking pain medication that makes you drowsy.
* Have severe pain or discomfort.
* Are unable to react quickly to unexpected events.

If you are unsure whether it is safe for you to drive, talk to your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon.

Conclusion

Driving safely with an orthopaedic problem is possible, but it is important to be aware of your limitations and take precautions. By following the tips above, you can reduce your risk of injury and accidents while driving.

Additional Tips for Driving Safely with Orthopaedic Problems

Choose a car that is easy to get in and out of.
Make sure that your car is well-maintained. This includes having the tires properly inflated and the brakes and steering checked regularly.
Avoid driving in bad weather conditions.
Be aware of your surroundings and other drivers. Be prepared to react to unexpected events.
Plan your trips ahead of time. Avoid driving during rush hour or in congested areas.
Take breaks often. Get out of the car and move around every two to three hours.
Listen to your body. If you are tired or in pain, stop driving.

Resources

There are a number of resources available to help people with orthopaedic problems drive safely. These resources include:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS): The AAOS website has information on driving safely with orthopaedic problems, as well as a list of adaptive driving devices.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The NHTSA website has information on driving with disabilities, as well as a list of adaptive driving devices.
Disabled Driver Mobility Project (DDMP): The DDMP is a nonprofit organization that provides information and assistance to people with disabilities who drive.

If you have an orthopaedic problem and are concerned about driving safely, talk to your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon. They can help you assess your individual risks and develop a plan to drive safely.

Dr. Naveen's Bone and Joint Clinic, Sholinganallur
9094567894 , 9094567893
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